Optimisation of a floating oscillating water column wave energy converter

The analysis of floating oscillating water column (OWC) wave energy conversion (WEC) devices involves the coupled dynamics of the water column and the floating structure. In the present study, a mechanical oscillator model was used to examine this relationship for the heave motion of a floating wave energy conversion device. Optimal power take-off damping of the system was determined and the effects on maximum power capture examined. The influence of relative OWC and floating structure natural frequencies on OWC WEC device optimisation was also investigated.