These developments have resulted in a wave basin which is significantly improved in terms of wave climate variability and energy absorption. The shape of transition panels provided between the wave paddles and side beaches have been optimised using the wave propagation model. Lateral absorption implemented along the side walls of the basin as a result of this work has significantly improved the homogeneity of the wave climate with little reduction to the total energy in the main working area. Numerical modelling was undertaken using a phase resolving coastal wave propagation model to determine causes of observed non-homogeneity in the wave basin and efficiently determine an optimum wave basin design. Physical mapping was carried out using a specially developed polychromatic wave packet allowing accurate and efficient mapping of multiple frequencies simultaneously. Key findings are presented which should benefit others using or developing such facilities. The dashed black lines show the toe lines of the channel Figure 6 shows a comparison of the Boussinesq model (MIKE 21 BW) response for monochromatic (T 10s) waves for mean wave directions of 0 deg (a), 5 deg (b), 10.
A combined physical and numerical modelling methodology was employed. Comparison of Boussinesq (MIKE 21 BW) model results for MWD 0deg (a), MWD 5deg (b), MWD 10deg (c) and MWD 20 deg (d). The hydrodynamics around single and multiple devices is obtained with MIKE 21 BW, while wave loads and motions for a single moored device are derived from ANSYS-AQWA.Ĭombining the experimental and numerical it is suggested –for both coastal protection and energy production– to adopt a staggered layout, which will maximise the devices density and minimize the marine space required for the installation.Following completion of a new 18 m by 16 m 3D coastal wave basin facility by Queen's University Belfast in 2010, efforts to assess and enhance the performance were undertaken. The two numerical codes have different potentialities. MIKE 21 BW is a state-of-the-art numerical tool for studies and analysis of short and long period wave disturbance in ports and harbours MIKE 21 BW is capable of reproducing the combined effects of all important wave phenomena of interest in port, harbour and coastal engineering. Furthermore, a CALM mooring system leads to lower wave transmission and also larger power production than a spread mooring. Indications on the minimum inter-distance among the devices are provided. The wave transmission behind the devices is pretty high, suggesting that the tested layout should be considered as a module of a wave farm installation. The device length should be “tuned” based on the local climate conditions. Results of the research activity are summarized in terms of device performance and guidelines for a future wave farm installation.
Experimental results were also used to calibrate the numerical parameters and/or to directly been compared to numerical results, in order to extend the experimental database. The numerical simulations performed with the codes MIKE 21 BW and ANSYS-AQWA. The WEC under exam is a floating device belonging to the Wave Activated Bodies (WAB) class.Įxperimental data were performed at Aalborg University in different scales and layouts, and the performance of the models was analysed under a variety of irregular wave attacks. This research activity essentially rises due to this combined concept. WECs can be considered an innovative solution able to contribute to the green energy supply and –at the same time– to protect the rear coastal area under marine spatial planning considerations. The thesis analyses the hydrodynamic induced by an array of Wave energy Converters (WECs), under an experimental and numerical point of view.