A Model Predictive Control for Maximizing Energy Absorption in Direct-Drive Wave Energy Converters

The control method plays a pivotal role in enhancing energy capture efficiency in direct-drive wave energy converters (DDWEC). Traditional control methods typically operate efficiently in regular wave scenarios. However, their effective implementation becomes challenging when confronted with irregular waves. This paper examines the application of model predictive control (MPC) with constraints to enhance system performance in the presence of irregular waves. By utilizing the established mathematical model of the wave system, the optimal electromagnetic force of the generator during each control cycle is updated during each control cycle. Furthermore, a current control model incorporating the MPC method is devised to guarantee precise in currents tracking. Finally, the effectiveness of the MPC strategy is verified through the simulation results.