Derivation and Experimental Validation of a Parameterized Nonlinear Froude–Krylov Force Model for Heaving-Point-Absorber Wave Energy Converters

Houssein Yassin, Tania Demonte Gonzalez, Gordon Parker (), Giorgio Bacelli and Carlos Michelen
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Houssein Yassin: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
Tania Demonte Gonzalez: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
Gordon Parker: Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA
Giorgio Bacelli: Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87123, USA
Carlos Michelen: Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 87123, USA

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 11, 1-20

Abstract: Wave energy converters (WECs) have gained significant attention as a promising renewable energy source. Optimal control strategies, crucial for maximizing energy extraction, have traditionally relied on linear models based on small motion assumptions. However, recent studies indicate that these models do not adequately capture the complex dynamics of WECs, especially when large motions are introduced to enhance power absorption. The nonlinear Froude–Krylov (FK) forces, particularly in heaving-point-absorbers with varying cross-sectional areas, are acknowledged as key contributors to this discrepancy. While high-fidelity computational models are accurate, they are impractical for real-time control applications due to their complexity. This paper presents a parameterized approach for expressing nonlinear FK forces across a wide range of point-absorber buoy shapes inspired by implementing real-time, model-based control laws. The model was validated using measured force data for a stationary spherical buoy subjected to regular waves. The FK model was also compared to a closed-form buoyancy model, demonstrating a significant improvement, particularly with high-frequency waves. Incorporating a scattering model further enhanced force prediction, reducing error across the tested conditions. The outcomes of this work contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of FK forces across a broader range of buoy configurations, simplifying the calculation of the excitation force by adopting a parameterized algebraic model and extending this model to accommodate irregular wave conditions.

Keywords: wave energy converter; hydrodynamic modeling; nonlinear hydrodynamics; excitation force; Froude–Krylov force; point-absorber (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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