New Type of Linear Switched Reluctance Generator for Wave Energy Applications

Wave energy conversion is a promising alternative to produce clean energy from the huge available resource at sea, but it is also a challenging mission because extraction conditions are difficult due to the harsh environment and also to the low frequency of the energy conversion process. In this regard, powerful Power Take-Offs are required, able to produce high forces at low frequencies, which also must be highly controllable to optimize the conversion process. This paper presents a new type of Linear Electric Generator based on a novel Switched Reluctance Machine, which is being developed in the framework of a H2020 Project called Sea Titan. The paper describes the calculation and the design processes of a 70 kN prototype which will also be manufactured and tested in the framework of Sea Titan, which also includes a feasibility study for a superconducting solution.