Abstract:
The world’s energy consumption is growing at an alarming rate and the need
for renewable energy is apparent now more than ever. Estimates have shown that
optimization of the extraction of energy from the ocean could significantly aid the
world’s quest for sustainable and affordable energy services for all. From small power
data buoys to generating power for coastal communities, everyone stands to benefit
from the technological optimization of ocean wave energy devices. This thesis
explores the design and implementation of a novel permanent magnet linear generator
for direct drive ocean wave energy extraction point absorber buoys. The design
optimizes the armature and magnet sections of a permanent magnet linear tubular
generator (PMLTG) for the purposes of maximizing the energy conversion efficiency
while minimizing cogging forces. Cogging forces in a linear generator influence
power fluctuations and hydrodynamic performance of the wave energy extraction
system. Implementation techniques involving the construction and mechanical design
aspects are included.
