[Paper Review] A review of hydrodynamic investigations into arrays of ocean wave energy converters

Swapnadip De Chowdhury, Jean-Roch Nader+8 more|arXiv (Cornell University)|Aug 1, 2015

Wave and Wind Energy Systems57 references19 citations

TL;DR

This paper reviews hydrodynamic investigations into arrays of ocean wave energy converters, synthesizing theoretical, numerical, and experimental studies to assess array performance and interactions. It identifies key knowledge gaps, emphasizes the complementarity of modeling and scaled experiments, and highlights the importance of array-level design for optimizing wave energy extraction.

ABSTRACT

Theoretical, numerical and experimental studies on arrays of ocean wave energy converter are reviewed. The importance of extracting wave power via an array as opposed to individual wave-power machines has long been established. There is ongoing interest in implementing key technologies at commercial scale owing to the recent acceleration in demand for renewable energy. To date, several reviews have been published on the science and technology of harnessing ocean-wave power. However, there have been few reviews of the extensive literature on ocean wave-power arrays. Research into the hydrodynamic modelling of ocean wave-power arrays is analysed. Where ever possible, comparisons are drawn with physical scaled experiments. Some critical knowledge gaps have been found. Specific emphasis has been paid on understanding how the modelling and scaled experiments are likely to be complementary to each other.

Motivation & Objective

• To synthesize and evaluate the extensive literature on hydrodynamic modeling and experimental studies of wave energy converter arrays.
• To identify critical knowledge gaps in array-scale wave energy research, particularly in modeling and experimental validation.
• To assess the complementarity between numerical modeling and physical scaled experiments in advancing array design.
• To support the commercialization of wave energy technology by improving understanding of array hydrodynamics and wave-structure interactions.

Proposed method

• Systematic review of theoretical, numerical, and experimental studies on wave energy converter arrays.
• Comparison of hydrodynamic models with results from physical scaled experiments to evaluate accuracy and reliability.
• Analysis of wave-structure interactions, including wave diffraction, radiation, and interference effects in array configurations.
• Evaluation of various modeling techniques such as boundary element methods and potential flow theory in array contexts.
• Synthesis of findings across different array geometries, spacing, and wave conditions.
• Focus on identifying discrepancies and synergies between simulation results and physical model data.

Experimental results

Research questions

• RQ1 How do hydrodynamic interactions between wave energy converters in an array affect overall power extraction efficiency?
• RQ2 To what extent do numerical models accurately predict the performance of wave energy converter arrays compared to physical scaled experiments?
• RQ3 What are the key limitations and knowledge gaps in current hydrodynamic modeling of wave energy converter arrays?
• RQ4 How can numerical modeling and physical experimentation be effectively combined to improve array design and performance prediction?
• RQ5 What role do array geometry and spacing play in optimizing wave energy capture and minimizing destructive interference?

Key findings

• Array configurations can significantly enhance wave energy extraction compared to individual devices due to constructive wave interference and optimized energy coupling.
• Discrepancies between numerical models and physical experiments are common, particularly in predicting near-field wave scattering and viscous effects.
• Modeling approaches such as boundary element methods show promise but require careful calibration with experimental data to improve accuracy.
• Physical scaled experiments remain essential for validating complex array interactions, especially in capturing nonlinear and viscous effects not fully resolved in potential flow models.
• Critical knowledge gaps remain in modeling array dynamics under real ocean conditions, including irregular wave spectra and long-term performance.
• The complementarity between modeling and experimentation is essential for advancing reliable, scalable wave energy array systems.