Research on a Direct-Drive Wave Energy Converter Using an Outer-PM Linear Tubular Generator

An outer-permanent magnet tubular linear generator has been designed to increase the power density and distance of relative movement. The design of the two buoys has been completed. This paper describes the detailed design process of the proposed generator. The magnetic network model of the proposed generator is implemented to analyze the performance. Considering the cogging force and voltage, the linear generator has been optimized and the final parameters have been determined. Based on the design results, the integrated wave converter system has been manufactured and put into China's Yellow Sea. The measured voltage is highly consistent with the simulation data. All of results show that the proposed generator is well suitable for wave energy conversion.