The market survey of data buoys identified that there is still no comparable cost effective telemetry option to that of the connected buoy tested in REALTIMESEA. The connected buoy has been tested and the algorithms to clean the raw data have been developed. The experience gained with the pilot study is invaluable, especially with regard to setting realistic timetables for commercial deployment in the future. The technology developed in REALTIMESEA is capital intensive as well as a niche application.
Additionally, during this project the EWDM (Extended Wavelet Directional Method) was developed and published as open-source. EWDM is a Python-based toolkit for estimating ocean wave directional spectra using wavelet-based techniques. Its innovative features include wavelet algorithms, improved directional distribution estimation via Kernel Density Estimation (KDE), and tools for visualization and data compatibility with other known platforms such as SOFAR Spotter buoys and CDIP waverider networks.
A levelized cost-based comparison between the proposed connected buoy and low-cost buoys has been performed. The conclusions are mixed. First, the life cycle analysis was based on present day costs. Second, the approach revealed a number of limitations. A major limitation is the maintenance schedule of the buoy lifecycle. It was assumed to be adequate but has probably been underestimated. Moreover, the capital requirements and maintenance schedule are heavily influenced by the site location at which the buoy is installed.
Even with the higher cost of capital assumed for the REALTIMESEA connected buoy, it will be cost-effective over its lifecycle compared with low-cost buoys at the site chosen for REALTIMESEA.
