On the value of Fano resonance in wave energy converters

Abstract

The article evaluates the potential of the Fano resonance operational principle in wave energy converters (WECs), using a 2-body loosely moored self-referenced WEC as an illustrative example. By leveraging Fano resonance, the point absorber buoy can remain relatively stationary with low loading on mooring lines, serving as an efficient wave energy transmitter while concurrently achieving resonance within the internal power take-off (PTO) system. This arrangement reduces the motion of the point absorber hull, thereby decreasing loads on the WEC structure, mooring lines, and anchors. As a result, operational and structural costs are minimised, further reducing the levelised costs of generated energy. Additionally, by ensuring minimal fluctuations in the WEC, confidence in using traditional linear mathematical models is increased, as commonly employed for WEC performance assessment and control design.

The article presents a resonance study and introduces newly derived solutions in the frequency domain for the proposed operational concept. It analytically demonstrates the viability of employing the Fano resonance operational strategy for WECs, suggesting that this strategy has the potential to compete with traditional methods of wave energy transformation. Furthermore, the insights gained from the study contribute to identifying optimal parameters for a PTO system, as well as optimising the design of the heaving buoy.