Frequency array and wave phase realizations for wave energy converter control optimization

Abstract

Vital to the progression of the wave energy industry is wave energy converter optimization which often relies on frequency-domain evaluations, utilized for efficiency as compared to time-domain. Despite being an integral factor in the resultant solution, the frequency array is rarely described in such studies. This study shows the impacts of the frequency array components and illustrates a general process by which to select a proper frequency array. The main factors to consider are the range and number of frequencies. Furthermore, this study introduces irregular wave phase realizations and suggests the importance of optimizing the system for multiple random sets of wave component phase. Ultimately, the importance of proper selection of both the frequency array and wave phase realizations to the optimization solution is demonstrated for the Pioneer WEC using WecOptTool.