A parametric optimization study towards the preliminary design of point absorber type wave energy converters suitable for the Turkish coasts of the Black Sea

Abstract

Abstract A parametric optimization study is carried out to find an optimal design to capture the maximum energy in a target area off the Turkish coast of the Black Sea. A heaving point absorber wave energy converter is analyzed by taking into account different float geometries with various dimensions and several hydraulic Power Take-Off parameters. The calculations are carried out in time domain by modeling each sea state observed in the target area. The effects of the geometry, mass, and the dimensions of the floats and the parameters of the Power Take-Off system on the energy generated from the waves are investigated and discussed. The analyses showed that the maximum pressure of the hydraulic accumulator, the cross-sectional area of the hydraulic piston, and the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid can be selected to combine the values of those which the WEC performs best in the sea state that possesses nearly similar energy as the annual average of all sea states observed in the target area. The cost of energy is also evaluated and it is found that the most economical WEC differs by float geometry.