A Novel Profiler Driven by Tidal Energy for Long Term Oceanographic Measurements in Offshore Areas

Abstract

In this paper, an innovative profiler driven by tidal energy for long-term oceanographic measurements in offshore areas with abundant tidal resources is investigated. The profiler is mainly composed of an oceanographic data collection system equipped with various sensors and a cross-plate that can make an upward or downward movement under the impact of tidal currents. Theoretical research is carried out through static analysis and numerical simulation, mainly studying the hydrodynamic characteristics of the cross-plate and its dynamic response to the current velocity. The theoretical model is verified by comparison with experiments. The research results show that tidal energy can be used as a kind of energy to drive the profiler’s ascent and descent motion and to continuously measure ocean parameters without using electric energy. The theoretical model established in this study can roughly predict the position of the profiler observation platform in the vertical direction under various current velocities. Furthermore, by studying the relationship between the current velocities and the lift and drag forces of the cross-plate in the fluid, it is recognized that the current velocity is an important factor affecting the stability of the system’s motion. It is hoped that this research will contribute to the development of profilers.