CANCELLED: Modeling and Control of Wave Energy Converters (2016)

  • Description:

    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. When working with optimization of the power performance of a wave energy converter, the control hereof, via the power take-off system is of paramount importance.

     

    In May 2016 the Wave Energy Research Group at Aalborg University (AAU), Department of Civil Engineering, will offer a Ph.D. course running over 6 days in Aalborg.

     

    The course cover:

    • General introduction, experimental modeling and testing
    • Theoretical approach to advanced WEC control
    • Implementation of advanced WEC control in experimental models

     

    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

     

    Lecturers:

     

    Theoretical approach to advanced WEC control:

     

    The objective of the second 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 mainly consist of class room lectures.

     

    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.

     

    Lecturers:

     

    Implementation of advanced WEC control in experimental models:

     

    The objective of the third module of the course is to implement and test advanced control algorithms in the wave laboratory. The module will include class room lectures and laboratory exercises in the wave tanks/flumes

     

    This module will include the following subjects:

    • Resistive and reactive control in regular and irregular waves, with and without constraints on PTO forces and PTO efficiency
    • Comparison between numerical models and laboratory measurements for the applied control strategies
    • Possibility for testing any advanced control strategy developed by the student (adaptive control, wave excitation force prediction, MPC...)

    Lecturers:

     

    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.

    Course fee:

    500 EUR for Ph.D. students registered at any university, and for partners in UPWAVE and ICONN. 1500 EUR for any other participant.



    Organizer: Jens Peter Kofoed jpk@civil.aau.dk , (AAU)


    ECTS: 5

    Time: 26 May 2016 - 1 June 2016

    Place: Department of Civil Engineering, Aalborg University


    Zip code:     9220

    City:     Aalborg

    Number of seats: 15

    Deadline: 17 April, 2016

    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.