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Physical Model Tests of the Anaconda Wave Energy Converter

Author(s): V. Heller; Iahr Member; J. R. Chaplin; F. J. M. Farley; M. R. Hann; G. E. Hearn

Linked Author(s): Valentin Heller

Keywords: No Keywords

Abstract: Anaconda is a wave energy converter consisting essentially of a closed rubber tube filled with water anchored head to the waves in the sea. Pressure variations due to external waves generate bulge waves in this tube which can be used to produce electrical power with a power take-off system at the tube stern. A test set-up was designed allowing for the generation of bulge waves both in initially still water, mechanically with a moving piston inside the tube, and by external water waves. This article presents experimental results from 156 tests conducted in a 20 m long, 30 m wide and 3 m deep wave basin at Danish Hydraulic Institute. Bulge wave speeds measured by means of strain gauges mounted on the tube are found to be in reasonable agreement with predictions based on linear theory using static measurements of distensibility. The capture width of Anaconda is optimal if the bulge wave speed is close to the external wave celerity. In this condition, measurements of water waves produced in initially still water by mechanically generated bulge waves suggest that the Anaconda has the desirable feature of radiating waves predominantly in the forwards direction.

DOI:

Year: 2010

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