TALOS Wave Energy Converter

The NHP-WEC project, a collaboration between Lancaster University (LU) and the University of Hull (UoH), aims to advance wave energy technology through the integration of TALOS and SmartWave technologies.

Central to this research is the Technologically Advanced Learning Ocean System – Wave Energy Converter (TALOS-WEC), a novel multi-axis WEC developed at LU. This system converts wave motion into electricity using an enclosed inertial mass and a hydraulic Power Take-Off (PTO) system, optimized for both efficiency and survivability in extreme marine environments. The project focuses on refining the design of the WEC and PTO system to enhance performance in response to dynamic wave inputs.

The research emphasizes the importance of quantifying wave characteristics to improve energy production, enhance system reliability, and optimize materials and manufacturing techniques. In parallel, the project leverages SmartWave, a machine learning-driven sea state forecasting tool developed at UoH, to provide high-fidelity wave predictions. This integration enhances the operational control of WEC arrays, boosting energy yields and supporting global deployment potential while ensuring the system's survivability in challenging marine environments.

Objectives

The project has a number of objectives, which include:

Concept Optimisation

Refine and optimize WEC geometry and Power Take-Off (PTO) design to maximize performance.

Operational Systems

Implement sensors and actuators for condition monitoring, enhancing reliability, survivability, and control of the multi-axis PTO to improve energy conversion efficiency.

Resource Forecasting

Develop machine learning tools for accurate short-term operational predictions and long-term energy yield forecasts across different sites.

Device Deployment Potential

Create a wave-to-wire model to evaluate the Levelised Cost of Energy (LCOE) and assess commercialisation readiness for standalone devices and arrays.

Marine Wave Energy Development

Engage with industry and share research outputs to benefit the wider energy community and advance marine wave energy technology.