143881 - Uncertainty analysis of a WEC model test experiment - manuscript.pdf (5.46 MB)
Uncertainty analysis of a WEC model test experiment
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-20, 22:42 authored by Orphin, J, Jean-Roch NaderJean-Roch Nader, Irene PenesisIrene PenesisOcean wave energy has significant technical potential but limited full-scale deployments and technology convergence. Consequently, guidelines for developing wave energy converters (WECs) are still developing themselves, especially around experimental uncertainty analysis (UA). To develop a comprehensive WEC-specific UA methodology, we conducted a 1:30 scale experiment of a case study oscillating water column (OWC) WEC. This paper presents the methodology, which describes UA principles and means to identify parameters causing uncertainty, and demonstrates new WEC-specific UA methods: general uncertainty analysis (GUA), the Monte Carlo method (MCM) for uncertainty propagation, and Type A and Type B uncertainty evaluation. Results show the expanded uncertainty averaged ± 16% for capture width ratio and ± 6% for wave loads; Type B uncertainty tended to be slightly larger than Type A uncertainty; and uncertainty in regular waves slightly larger than irregular waves. The MCM was found to be effective and efficient in uncertainty propagation. In general, given WECs tend to maximise motions, use a power take-off system, and must survive storms, WEC model tests may be especially susceptible to uncertainty due to nonlinearities and modelling complexities. In conclusion, UA should be carried out in WEC model test experiments. We close with recommendations for refining relevant international guidelines.
History
Publication title
Renewable EnergyVolume
168Pagination
216-233ISSN
0960-1481Department/School
Institute for Marine and Antarctic StudiesPublisher
Pergamon-Elsevier Science LtdPlace of publication
The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford, England, Ox5 1GbRights statement
© 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.Repository Status
- Open