A Theoretical Analysis of a Self-Propelled Backward-Bent Duct Wave Energy Conversion System

An analysis of a self-propelled Backward-Bent Duct Barge (BBDB) wave energy conversion system operating at an averaged forward speed is presented. The energy required to propel the system is a parasitic energy of the wave energy conversion subsystem. The analysis includes a feedback between the internal water motions and the floating body dynamics. The performance of the BBDB operating in a design (head) sea is shown to be far superior to both a BBDB in a following sea and a fixed BBDB in a following sea. For this comparison, a 35.6-m long system having a 9.91-m beam and displacing 500 metric tons is studied. The system is also shown to have a positive drift in head seas.