Course info

Description:
Modeling and Control of Wave Energy Converters
The work on development of wave energy converters (WECs) typically involves intensive laboratory model testing in wave tanks and/or flumes at the earlier stages, and intensive testing and monitoring of prototypes in real seas at later stages. During the various development steps numerical modeling offers possibilities of investigation of larger parameter ranges than allowable in experimental modeling, and is therefore an essential tool for optimization. When working with optimization of the power performance of a wave energy device, the control hereof, via the power take-off system is of paramount importance.
In Aug. 2013 (19-30.08.2013) the Wave Energy Research Group at Aalborg University (AAU), Department of Civil Engineering, in cooperation with the Marine Energies and Ocean Group at Ecole Centrale de Nantes (ECN), will offer a Ph.D. course running over two consecutive weeks, leading up to the EWTEC 2013 conference (02-05.09.2013) to be held in Aalborg.
The course is split into 3 modules:
• General introduction, experimental modeling and testing
• Numerical modeling
• Advanced control
General introduction, experimental modeling and testing:
The objective of the first module of the course is to introduce and apply wave analysis theory, laboratory measuring techniques, prototype monitoring and control. The module will include class room lectures, laboratory exercises in the wave tanks/flumes and a visit to a wave energy test installation in real sea.
This module will include the following subjects:
• Wave analysis
• Measuring techniques for waves, loadings and power take-off
• Analysis of laboratory and real sea data for performance evaluation
Numerical modeling:
The objective of the second module of the course is to introduce and getting experience with running numerical models of WECs including modeling of PTO and its control. The module will include class room lectures and exercises.
This module will include the following subjects:
• The state of the art of numerical modeling for WECs
• Limitations of these techniques and the existence of other numerical approaches for hydrodynamic modeling
• Development of a numerical wave to wire model
Advanced control:
The objective of the third module of the course is to go through the basics of control of WECs (based on wave activated bodies) and work its way through to stochastic optimal control of ditto. . The module will include class room lectures, laboratory exercises in the wave tanks/flumes
This module will include the following subjects:
• Optimal control of wave energy devices
• Basic mechanics of wave energy devices with power output control.
• Optimal control for linear and nonlinear systems. Linear quadratic control.
• Control using noise free observers.
• Stochastic optimal control of wave energy devices.
The course is arranged through the Doctoral School of Engineering and Science at Aalborg University. For Ph.D. students registered at any university, participation in the course itself is free. However, a fee will be charged to cover expenses for lunches, coffee, transportation, etc. For non-Ph.D. students, an additional registration fee will also be charged. The fees will be charged after the registration deadline is passed and registrants have got the confirmation of participation.
The course is of relevance to PhD students and others with interests in development of wave energy devices.
Prerequisites: Some knowledge of fluid mechanics and wave kinematics, dynamic structures/mechanical systems, potential flow (linear wave) theory, Fourier transform and stochastic processes, as well as good skills in mathematical analysis.

The course i filled up, if you wish to be put on a waiting list please contact the course holder via e-mail.

Organizer:
Jens Peter Kofoed (AAU) e-mail: jpk@civil.aau.dk), Aurélien Babarit (ECN)

Lecturers:

ECTS:
8

Time:
August 19-30, 2013

Place:
Aalborg University

Zip code:
9220

City:
Aalborg

Number of seats:
12

Deadline:
July 1, 2013

Important information concerning PhD courses
We have over some time experienced problems with no-show for both project and general courses. It has now reached a point where we are forced to take action. Therefore, the Doctoral School has decided to introduce a no-show fee of DKK 5,000 for each course where the student does not show up. Cancellations are accepted no later than 2 weeks before start of the course. Registered illness is of course an acceptable reason for not showing up on those days. Furthermore, all courses open for registration approximately three months before start. This can hopefully also provide new students a chance to register for courses during the year. We look forward to your registrations.