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PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/AquaHarmonics WEC
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AquaHarmonics WEC
The AquaHarmonics (AH) wave energy converter (WEC) concept is a point absorber style WEC comprised of an axisymmetric floating hull with a “winch style” interior Power Take Off (PTO) which generates electrical power by reacting against the seafloor via an anchor connected to the free end of PTO mooring line. The PTO operates in a tension only condition with a large operational stroke and an impedance control scheme for matching the WEC’s natural frequency with the frequency of the waves within the deployed wave environment. This particular device topology yields an energy dense device that maximizes electrical power output as compared with a passively operating device of a similar size. The device is free-floating in 6 degrees of freedom and generates power primarily in the heave DOF, with some power generated in the surge & sway components of device motion. The device generates power on the rise of the wave by reacting against the seafloor via high tensile forces in the main PTO mooring line between the device and the mooring anchor. These tensile forces rotate the PTO drum in its bearings and produces high torque, low RPM power at the PTO shaft. This is then stepped up via the synchronous gear drive to the generator. In parallel to the generator, energy is stored in the pneumatic spring/pre-load system. On the fall of the wave the PTO operates in a “motoring” condition by a combination of releasing energy stored in the pneumatic return spring system and operating the generator as a motor in the opposite direction which reels in the PTO mooring line. The power production cycle is then restarted.
Additional Information
Device Status
Is the device actively being developed or is available for purchase (active)? Or has development or support ended (inactive)?
Active
Technology Type
Power Take-Off
Mechanism that converts the motion of the prime mover into a useful form of energy such as electricity, learn more
Direct Drive Generator
Surface ExpressionTrue
Estimated TRL
Estimated Technology Readiness Level scale from 1 to 9 with 9 being the most mature technology
TRL Last updated: 28 August 2023
5
Energy Resource
- Wave
Water Column Position
Surface
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Submerged - Mid
Entire Water Column
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Submerged - Bottom
Last Modified
3 June 2025
Citation Formats
“AquaHarmonics WEC.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/AquaHarmonics_WEC. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.
Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "AquaHarmonics WEC." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/AquaHarmonics_WEC.
