Direct drive in wave energy conversion — AWS full scale prototype case study

This paper addresses the application of direct drive machines in wave energy conversion, with special focus on the AWS full scale prototype tested offshore Portugal in 2004. A short introduction to wave energy is given, describing its features as a renewable resource, the principles and the challenges behind its capture and conversion. The AWS wave energy conversion concept is described, as well it's full scale prototype design process, construction and installation. Furthermore, experimental results from offshore tests are presented.