Energy extraction from an articulated plate anti-motion device of a very large floating structure under irregular waves

Abstract

Abstract The deformation of a very large floating structure (VLFS) under wave action is termed hydroelastic response and can be mitigated by using various types of anti-motion devices to enhance the structures' workability. This paper focuses on the energy extraction from an articulated plate anti-motion device that is connected to a VLFS by hinges. The aim of the paper is to study the feasibility of the articulated-plate to function both as an anti-motion device and a wave energy converter such that the hydroelastic response of the VLFS can be reduced and at the same time a substantial amount of wave energy can be generated to power the VLFS. The results show interesting findings on the energy generation by the articulated plate where it was found that the energy generation of the articulated plate and its efficiency as an anti-motion device depend significantly on the length of the articulated plate. The results obtained from the irregular wave show that under a certain combination of significant wave height and wave peak period, ( H s − T p ) , it is possible to enhance the workability of the VLFS and ensuring that the VLFS is self-sustained out of renewable sources of energy.