Author(s): Deping Cao; Hanqi Zeng; Hao Chen
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Wave overtopping Wave energy converter Overtopping discharge Capture width
Abstract: Overtopping wave energy converters (OWECs) are designed to capture the energy from wave overtopping and transform it into clean and renewable electricity. The present paper numerically investigates wave overtopping characteristics, including the mean overtopping discharge and the resultant power harnessing of the OWECs. A numerical wave tank is set up using the open-source toolbox OpenFOAM. The model has been successfully validated by comparing the numerical results with the data from our experiments and those available in the literature. It has been found that the primary factors influencing wave overtopping and extracted power performance of the OWECs are the front slope and the non-dimensional freeboard. Wave period and OWECs' draft generally have inconsequential influences. It is found that decreased slope angle and freeboard lead to a higher overtopping discharge, which enhances the capture width of the OWEC.
Year: 2025