Mathematical description of wave propagation in order to assess the efficiency of the wave energy converter and find its optimal characteristics

Abstract

The potential for using wave energy is very high. According to various estimates, the energy of the world’s ocean waves can range from 146 TWh/year to 29,500 TWh/year. A number of mathematical models have been developed for the wave parameters analysis. The mathematical description of wave behaviour is a very complex process. Not least this is due to the complexity of the interaction of the wind that forms the waves with the water surface. As for the Black Sea, the mean annual wave power flux in this region can reach 4.8 kW/m. Such conclusions were made on the basis of modelling; the input was data on bathymetry of the region, wind speed and its direction. The obtained results on significant wave height, wave length and period were compared with the data obtained from the satellite. Many devices that convert wave energy into electrical energy have been developed. The choice of a particular device is based on a number of factors, including the installation site characteristics, weather conditions and economic opportunities. The article proposes a simple mathematical model of a wave, representing it in the form of a sinusoid. It is possible to estimate the wave energy conversion theoretical potential in a given region by analysing the obtained values of the energy received by the converter working surface (for example, turbine blade) after interacting with the wave. Calculations were carried out using the parameters of the Black Sea waves near the Crimean peninsula in winter.