Comparison of Offline, Real-Time Models and Hardware-in-the-Loop Test Results of a Power Take-Off for Wave Energy Applications

The power take-off (PTO) of a wave energy converter (WEC) converts mechanical extracted from the waves into electrical power. Increasing PTO performance under several operational conditions is therefore essential to reduce levelized cost given concept and achieve higher levels technology readiness. A key task in WEC design will then be holistic assessment combination with other subsystems. It hence important that designers are aware different modeling options. This paper addresses this need presents two alternative wave-to-wire approaches based on 250 kW modular electromechanical coupled an oscillating surge (OWSC) device. first detailed accurate offline model. second model simplified faster version first, being adequate for rapid analyses real-time (RT) simulation. benchmarking against RT hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) tests PTO. normalized root-mean-square error (NRMSE) considered as quantitative indicator measurement HIL test results Results show dynamics well represented by execution times up 10 faster. also depicts behavior observed NRMSE values position, velocity, force above 0.90, which shows replicates fidelity dynamic complete Meaningful differences however present highlighted paper. An understanding advantages drawbacks these three fundamental properly during its project cycle validate concepts certain level simplification.