Modelling and simulation of a floating oscillating water column

This article describes the computation of hydrodynamic parameters, modelling, and simulation of a floating oscillating water column wave energy device. The frequency-domain hydrodynamic parameters are computed using a three-dimensional panel method. Parameters related to wave radiation due to applied air pressure inside the air chamber are evaluated from reciprocity relations, without having to solve explicitly for the radiation potential due to the applied pressure. The dynamics of the whole system, including nonlinear air compressibility and relief valve characteristics, is modelled using bond graph as a tool. Both time- and linear frequency-domain models are described and selected simulation results, especially the converted power, are presented.