Numerical Modelling of Wave Energy Converters

Chapter 10

Phase-Resolving Wave Propagation Array Models

P. Troch; V. Stratigaki    Department of Civil Engineering, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium

Abstract

This chapter describes the use of a phase-resolving wave propagation model, MILDwave (based on the mild-slope equations), for assessing the park effect in arrays of wave energy converters (WECs) and the far-field wake effects of the arrays. The implementation of the WEC (array) is carried out using the numerical techniques of so-called sponge layers and wave generation along a circle, to simulate the physical process of energy absorption by the WEC, and the resulting wave transformation processes of reflection, diffraction, and radiation. A generic coupling methodology is presented ...