Controls Optimization of three different Wave Energy Conversion Devices

Performance Period: 2015 – 2019

Re Vision Consulting, in collaboration with Ocean Energy USA, Resolute Marine Energy, CalWave, Navigant Consulting, and University of Michigan, is developing an optimal control algorithm framework that can be applied to any WEC topology under development. The algorithm framework includes causal and non-causal controls methods. A deterministic wave prediction system is being developed in parallel to enable the non-causal MPC controls frameworks. Device performance improvements will be validated through wave-tank and in-ocean testing. This project will, demonstrate the impact of optimal controls on 3 different WEC topologies.

Publications:

M. Previsic, A. Karthikeyan, and J. Scruggs (2020). WEC Controls – Approaches and Lessons Learned. White Paper Developed for the US Department of Energy.

M. Previsic, A. Karthikeyan, A. Chertok, R. Nie, D. Clabby and J. Scruggs (2016). Optimal causal control of wave energy converters in stochastic waves – Accommodating nonlinear dynamic and loss models.