Wave Device Principles
Waves are created by the
interaction of wind with the surface of the sea, sometimes over
very long distances. The size of the waves is influenced by
wind, the local seabed bathymetry (which can focus or disperse the
energy of the waves) and currents. Waves offer a large source
of energy which can be converted into electricity by a wave energy
converter (WEC). Some wave energy converters have been
developed to extract energy from the shoreline, others from waters
offshore, some with a hydraulic power take-off system and some with
an electrical power take-off system. EMEC has identified six
main types of wave energy converter that are outlined
below.
| Example 1 |
Example 2 |
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The motion of waves causes the
elements of the device to move relative to each other. This
oscillating movement is used to generate electricity.
|
The motion of waves causes the
floating element to move relative to the anchor point. This
linear oscillating movement is used to generate electricity.
|
| Example 3 |
Example 4 |
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| A water column is formed using a
partically submerged, hollow structure. The motion of the
waves causes the water level to rise and fall and this movement is
used to compress and force air through a turbine. The
rotation of the turbine is used to generate electricity. |
By positioning of guides
interacting with waves, water is forced upwards and into a
reservoir before returning back down to the sea via a low head
turbine. The rotation of the turbine is used to generate
electricity. |
| Example 5 |
Example 6 |
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| The motion of wave surges causes
the device to move with a pendulum-like motion. This
oscillating movement is used to generate electricity. |
The motion of the waves causes the
sea level to rise and fall above the device, inducing a pressure
differential. The alternating pressure is used to pump fluid
to turn a hydraulic motor. The rotation of the motor is used
to generate electricity. |
