Hardware-in-the-loop simulation of wave energy converters based on dielectric elastomer generators

Abstract Dielectric elastomer generators (DEGs) are soft electrostatic based on low-cost electroactive polymer materials. These devices have attracted the attention of marine energy community as a promising solution to implement economically viable wave converters (WECs). This paper introduces hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation framework for class WECs that combines concept oscillating water columns (OWCs) with DEGs. The proposed HIL system replicates in laboratory environment realistic operating conditions an OWC/DEG plant, while drastically reducing experimental burden compared tank or sea tests. simulator is driven by closed-loop real-time hydrodynamic model novel coupling criterion which allows rendering dynamic response diversity scenarios, including large scale DEG plants, whose dimensions and topologies largely different from those available setup. A case study also introduced, simulates application DEGs OWC plant installed mild real test-site. Comparisons sea-test data demonstrated ability setup effectively replicate scenario. insights gathered performance analysed systems pave way pursue further trials future.