Validation and Optimization of an Open-Source Novel Nonlinear Froude-Krylov Model for Advanced Design of Wave Energy Converters

Description du projet

Des modèles mathématiques avancés ouvrent la voie à l’exploitation de l’énergie houlomotrice

Malgré son potentiel, la technologie de l’énergie houlomotrice n’a toujours pas été adoptée à grande échelle. Les outils de simulation modernes ne sont pas encore économiquement viables en raison du risque d’investissement élevé et des incertitudes de modélisation pendant les étapes de conception et de développement. Des modèles mathématiques rapides et précis sont nécessaires pour concevoir de manière fiable des convertisseurs d’énergie houlomotrice. Financé par le programme Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, basé au MOREnergy Lab (à l’École polytechnique de Turin en Italie), OpenWave, financé par l’UE, développe une nouvelle classe de modèles non linéaires, basée sur des calculs de forces de Froude-Krylov non linéaires, qui seront plus précis que les modèles linéaires et 100 à 1 000 fois plus rapide que les modèles non linéaires similaires existants. Ces nouveaux modèles devraient faciliter la conception et l’optimisation efficaces des convertisseurs d’énergie houlomotrice et permettre une optimisation de la puissance en temps réel et un contrôle basé sur des modèles.

Objectif

Wave energy represents a great untapped potential, but modern technologies are not economically viable yet, mainly due to high investment risk and modelling uncertainties during design/development stages. Accurate and computationally fast mathematical models are essential tools for effectively and reliably designing wave energy converters (WECs). Although WEC dynamics are typically very nonlinear, linear (imprecise) models are extensively used due to their computational convenience; in contrast, nonlinear models currently available are more accurate but too slow for design optimisation or control applications.

This fellowship purports to develop, validate, and disseminate a novel class of nonlinear models, which will realise an unprecedented pairing of accuracy and computational speed (100 to 1000 times faster than homologous existing models). Conversely to other, slower nonlinear models, this novel model can facilitate effective design and optimisation of the device, enable real-time power optimisation and model-based control. The project will greatly impact the wave energy community, making a high-performance modelling tool easily accessible to any stakeholder for a variety of advanced design purposes. This project is comprised of 3 work packages, which accomplish: (1) validation of the model for axisymmetric devices, (2) expansion and validation of the model for pitching platform devices, and (3) enhancement of computation performance and release of an open-source software. In addition, this fellowship will expand the career horizons of the fellow: a highly multidisciplinary plan is defined, building upon and extending beyond his current competencies. The fellow is well-positioned to undertake this project, allowing him to fully develop innovative ideas from his PhD research. This fellowship will provide the fellow with an unparalleled opportunity to grow as a scientist and engineer, launching him on a trajectory to a productive and rewarding scientific career.