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Point Absorbers
What is it?
Point absorbers are a type of wave energy converter (WEC) designed to harness the energy from ocean waves. These floating devices typically consist of a buoy that moves up and down with the motion of the waves. This vertical movement drives a mechanical system within the point absorber, often involving hydraulic or mechanical components, which converts the wave motion into electricity. Point absorbers are generally compact and can operate in a wide range of wave conditions, making them versatile for use in various marine environments.
How Do Point Absorbers Work?
Floater
The beacon on top of the floater flashes to alert passing ships of its location, helping to prevent collisions and ensure safety.
The floater follows the up-and-down motion of waves, transmitting this movement to the power generation mechanism and playing a key role in converting wave energy into electricity.
The floater is integrated with the structure to remain stably afloat, allowing it to continuously collect energy from waves even amidst currents and wind.
Magnet
The magnet plays a crucial role in generating electrical energy.
As the floater moves up and down with the waves, this motion is transferred to the magnet and coil system. The magnet moves up and down inside or around the coil, inducing a current through electromagnetic induction, thereby converting mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Generator Coils
The generator coils work together with magnets to convert wave motion into electrical energy.
The coils capture the magnetic field generated by the up-and-down movement of the magnet. The movement of the magnet causes current to flow within the coils, thereby generating electricity.
Foundation
The Foundation's role is to secure the structure to the seabed. With it being fixated in one place it allows the floater to lift up and down the magnets to generate electricity
Scale and distribution
The scale and distribution play a crucial role in ensuring stable power output.
Appropriately arranged coils of various sizes optimize energy absorption based on wave size and frequency, allowing consistent energy production across different wave conditions.
Coil arrangement can be adjusted for higher output or environmental optimization, with distributed placement allowing continuous operation even if some coils fail.
Main cable lies on the seabed leading to the shore where it can be connected to the mainland power grid.
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