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PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/Archimedes Waveswing
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Archimedes Waveswing
The AWS Archimedes Waveswing consists of two overlapping cylinders submerged about 25 m or more. The lower cylinder is fixed to the seabed and the upper/outer one is allowed to move with ocean swell. An air pocket is trapped inside the upper cylinder, so when a wave passes over the trapped air pocket is compressed. This forces the float and outer cylinder down. When the trough passes overhead, the air pocket forces the float back up because of reduced water pressure. This motion causes the float to oscillate. Electricity is generated through a linear generator. Magnets are attached to the inside of the float (upper cylinder) and they generate electricity when they move relative to the inside coil.
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
Max Rated Power Capacity
The maximum amount of electricity that can be produced by the device, as rated by the manufacturer.
500 KW
Surface ExpressionFalse
Estimated TRL
Estimated Technology Readiness Level scale from 1 to 9 with 9 being the most mature technology
TRL Last updated: 16 September 2024
7
Energy Resource
- Wave
Water Column Position
Surface
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Submerged - Mid
Entire Water Column
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Submerged - Bottom
Last Modified
9 June 2025
Projects Using Archimedes Waveswing
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Test Sites where Archimedes Waveswing was tested
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Citation Formats
“Archimedes Waveswing.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/Archimedes_Waveswing. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.
Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "Archimedes Waveswing." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/Archimedes_Waveswing.
