Energy harvest on TSUSUCA DOLPHIN under irregular waves: Experimental studies

Finding sustainable and infinite green energy options in a world that relies primarily on fossil fuels is crucial as traditional sources decline. Wave energy is an excellent example of an environmentally friendly power source. A multi-utility bio-inspired floating device consisting of two TSUSUCA (TSUnami Protection Solar Utilization and other Coastal Applications) Dolphin-shaped bodies integrated with a linear motion electricity generator (LMEG) connected to a rigid deck by a hinged connection is tested experimentally under irregular waves. This novel and innovative multi-utility floating offshore device can function as a tsunami barrier and a wave energy extraction device. Its performance and operating mechanism are investigated under 8 different sets of irregular waves. The examined sea states are represented by JONSWAP and PM wave spectra with a range of significant wave heights (0.05 - 0.20 m) and peak periods (1.5 and 2.0 s). The experimental results show that the overall electrical power efficiency of LMEG coupled to each Dolphin obtained for set 6 is 32.04 % and 30.81 % for both JONSWAP and PM spectrums, respectively. This bio-inspired device and its performance confirms the proof-of-concept while the presented study shall become a prime factor towards the development of more similar devices to harness wave energy.