Ångström Laboratory at Uppsala University has been researching and developed a wave energy converter, WEC, since 2006. The WEC is based on a linear generator that is grounded on the seabed, in the generator the translator is linked with a large buoy on the sea surface via a wire. When the buoy follows the wave motion up and down, the translator also follows the same path, which generates energy. Thus using the energy of the waves to extract electricity. However, for the WEC to operate at an optimal level the wire need to be at a specific length, thus the WEC needs to be compensated against the tide. Therefore, a system for tensioning and unloading the wire connecting the buoy with the translator has been developed. The system is equipped with a battery that needs to be charged, this thesis is a part of the development of a small WEC that can deliver energy for the battery. The task is to develop and construct a smaller WEC which is to be placed on the big buoy to generate energy without affecting the larger WEC´s functionality. The purpose of the project is to design a CAD model for a small WEC based on a theoretically tested model by Camilla Tumlin. In order to provide a basis for the design of the small WEC a preliminary study of different WEC´s from a number of manufacturers was carried out, as well as an analysis of the wave pattern at the planned location for the WEC. Concepts for the WEC's main parts were developed and evaluated using Concept Selection Matrices in addition to discussions with the supervisor and clients. Some of the details were developed in collaboration with manufacturers. The thesis resulted in a design proposal for the WEC. CAD files and drawings were given to the client for manufacturing of a prototype. The design solution meets all product requirements, apart from the weight of the moving parts. However, the requirement for the weight was approved by the client. Further development can investigate whether the weight can be reduced. The next step of the project is to produce a prototype of the WEC, the prototype can then be performance tested in order to assure its functionality.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UPSALLA1/oai:DiVA.org:uu-355033 |
| Date | January 2018 |
| Creators | Bodå, Erik, Röder, Magnus |
| Publisher | Uppsala universitet, Industriell teknik, Uppsala universitet, Industriell teknik |
| Source Sets | DiVA Archive at Upsalla University |
| Language | Swedish |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Student thesis, info:eu-repo/semantics/bachelorThesis, text |
| Format | application/pdf |
| Rights | info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess |
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