Experimental Study on the Dynamics of A Bottom-hinged Oscillating Wave Surge Converter

The bottom-hinged oscillating wave surge converter (OWSC) is a type of wave energy device that consists of a buoyant flap that is free to oscillate about a pivot. It completely penetrates the water column and is located within the near shore region. This paper presents an experimental study on the dynamics of the device in regular waves. In the experiments, dynamic properties involving natural period, pitching amplitude were analyzed, and rotary dampers were used to simulate the mechanical performance and characteristics of the power take-off system. Besides, two flap models with different thickness, five cases of sea states, both fully submerged and surface- piercing conditions were considered. It is found that the natural period of the flap increases as the draft increases initially and decreases afterwards. The pitching amplitude of the flap increases obviously when its natural period is close to that of the incident wave.