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Design, modeling and optimization of rolling wave energy converter

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  • Tao, Ji
  • Cao, Feifei
  • Sun, Liang
  • Zhang, Chongwei
  • Han, Zhi
  • Shi, Hongda

Abstract

Wave energy, as a form of renewable energy, is attractive because of its wide distribution and relatively high energy density. The oscillating body, especially the point absorber, is one of the most widely adopted technology due to its easy deployment and simple structure. This paper presents a novel point absorber wave energy converter (WEC) called Rolling, of which design principles, modeling and optimization are discussed. The Key contributions include: (i) A novel Mechanical-Motion-Rectifier (MMR) based Power Take-Off (PTO) system design that significantly enhances energy harvesting efficiency and reliability by converting bidirectional motion into stable unidirectional generator rotation. (ii) A smaller, multi-degree-of-freedom (DOF) axisymmetric buoy design that improves adaptability and energy capture in low wave energy density areas. (iii) A comprehensive wave-to-wire numerical model that couples the energy conversion process across all stages, achieving accurate estimation from wave energy input to electrical energy output. Furthermore, parameter optimization was performed using the Covariance Matrix Adaptation Evolutionary Strategy (CMA-ES) algorithm. The results presented in this paper provide a validated framework and valuable design insights for these types of devices.

Suggested Citation

  • Tao, Ji & Cao, Feifei & Sun, Liang & Zhang, Chongwei & Han, Zhi & Shi, Hongda, 2025. "Design, modeling and optimization of rolling wave energy converter," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 339(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:339:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225047541
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.139112
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    References listed on IDEAS

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