Browsing by Author "Fairhurst, Jason"

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    Modelling and design of an oscillating wave energy converter
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-12) Fairhurst, Jason; Van Niekerk, J. L.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Engineering. Dept. Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: This thesis presents the experimental testing and development of a time-domain simulation model for a wave energy converter based on the principles of an oscillating water column. The device was developed and patented by Stellenbosch University hence the name, Stellenbosch Wave Energy Converter (SWEC). The main objective of this project was to produce a verified and validated simulation model for the Stellenbosch Wave Energy Converter. The device is experimentally tested and modelled in two different configurations, namely the Surface SWEC and the Submerged SWEC. Experimental testing and mathematical modelling contributed to the development of the two simulation models. These models provided a better understanding of the hydrodynamics and thermodynamics associated with the device. The experimental results show that the Surface SWEC achieved a peak conversion efficiency of 26% and a conversion efficiency of 15% at the expected operating conditions. The Submerged SWEC achieved a peak conversion efficiency of 22% and a conversion efficiency of 13% at the expected operating conditions. The Surface SWEC simulation model predicted the transmissibility of the device with errors which ranged from 0% to 26% with the majority of the errors being less than 10%. Conversion efficiencies predicted by the Surface SWEC model achieved errors which ranged from 0% to 42% with the majority of the errors being less than 10%. The Submerged SWEC model predicted the transmissibility of the device with errors which ranged from 0% to 20% with the majority of the errors being less than 5%. The Submerged SWEC model predicted the conversion efficiency of the device with errors which ranged from 0% to 43% with the majority of the errors being less than 15%.