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PRIMRE/Databases/Projects Database/Devices/SantAnna Scuola Universitaria Superiore Pisa PolyWEC
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SantAnna Scuola Universitaria Superiore Pisa PolyWEC
PolyWEC introduces a new class of Polymeric WECs (PolyWECs), characterised by the employment of Dielectric Elastomer (DE) transducers. The goal is to introduce a radical change in the traditional architecture of WECs that usually includes three basic components: mechanical wave absorbers, a mechanical transmission and a power take-off system. Due to their nature, PolyWECs can be conceived in a way that such three components are integrated into a single deformable lightweight and low-cost polymeric element. DEs have been largely investigated in the form of actuators for robotics and ICT applications. Preliminary studies on energy generation through DEs demonstrated their great potential in terms of cost effectiveness, efficiency and reduced complexity. Due to their intrinsic low mass, flexibility and resilience, as well as their capacitive nature and high voltage operation, DE technology perfectly matches the requirements of WECs.
Additional Information
Device Status
Is the device actively being developed or is available for purchase (active)? Or has development or support ended (inactive)?
Inactive
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: 9 March 2015
4
Energy Resource
- Wave
Water Column Position
Surface
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Submerged - Mid
Entire Water Column
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Submerged - Bottom
Last Modified
6 May 2025
Citation Formats
“SantAnna Scuola Universitaria Superiore Pisa PolyWEC.” Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices, PRIMRE, United States Department of Energy, https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/SantAnna_Scuola_Universitaria_Superiore_Pisa_PolyWEC. Accessed <day> <monthRoman> <year>.
Marine Energy Projects Database: Devices. <year>. "SantAnna Scuola Universitaria Superiore Pisa PolyWEC." Accessed <monthRoman> <day>, <year>. https://openei.org/wiki/PRIMRE/Databases/Projects_Database/Devices/SantAnna_Scuola_Universitaria_Superiore_Pisa_PolyWEC.
