Thesis
The design of a wave energy converter intended for nearshore deployment for post disaster scenarios
University of Iowa
Master of Science (MS), University of Iowa
Spring 2026
DOI: 10.25820/etd.008334
Abstract
There is a significant amount of untapped energy in ocean waves, with most existing research focused on large-scale, capital-intensive wave energy converters designed for grid-level power generation. However, a gap remains in the development of simple, small-scale, and rapidly deployable systems for post-disaster applications, particularly in impoverished or remote coastal regions where energy access is limited. In such scenarios, reliable electricity is essential for communication systems and critical medical devices.
This thesis presents a case study analyzing the design of an energy system for post-disaster coastal communities. Given a site-specific wave profile, a mathematical code will generate the framework of a two-degree-of-freedom point absorber wave energy converter customed designed for that wave profile. The system is intentionally small-scale, cost-efficient, and manufacturable using readily available components. A model was developed in Simulink to represent the coupled dynamics of the two-body system under wave excitation. The model is based on governing equations of motion and incorporates vibrational dynamics, hydrodynamic effects, and wave inputs derived from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) buoy data.
A power take-off (PTO) system utilizing an automotive alternator was implemented to convert mechanical motion into electrical energy, selected for its availability, low cost, and suitability for small-scale applications. An optimization framework was then applied to maximize energy capture by identifying optimal system parameters.
Simulation results, including displacement, velocity, force, and power output, demonstrate that system performance is highly sensitive to design parameters and can be significantly improved through optimization. These findings indicate that the proposed design can generate sufficient electrical power to support essential needs in vulnerable coastal communities. Future work will focus on experimental validation of both system dynamics and power generation.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- The design of a wave energy converter intended for nearshore deployment for post disaster scenarios
- Creators
- Alana Just
- Contributors
- Casey Harwood (Advisor)Caterina Lamuta (Committee Member)Venanzio Cichella (Committee Member)
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Degree Awarded
- Master of Science (MS), University of Iowa
- Degree in
- Mechanical Engineering
- Date degree season
- Spring 2026
- DOI
- 10.25820/etd.008334
- Publisher
- University of Iowa
- Number of pages
- xii, 69 pages
- Copyright
- Copyright 2026 Alana Just
- Language
- English
- Date submitted
- 04/28/2026
- Description illustrations
- illustrations, tables, graphs
- Description bibliographic
- Includes bibliographical references (pages 66-67).
- Public Abstract (ETD)
The ocean is full of untapped energy in the form of moving waves. This energy has the potential to be used to help communities after they have experienced a hurricane, large storm, or other natural disaster since their access to electricity is disrupted. In these situations, access to energy is critical for communication and basic needs.
This research paper proposes that a small-scale, low-cost, and easy-to-make wave energy converter will provide essential power to those in need. To do that, this device operates by moving vertically with the ocean waves, converting this motion into rotary motion, which is then connected to the shaft of an automotive alternator, generating electricity.
To maximize the electricity that is being generated, a computational model was developed to simulate how the device will move in the ocean given that the wave is applying a force. This model was then paired with an optimization code to determine the design parameters that will produce the most energy. Simulation results tell us how accurate the model is and give information about the system’s performance.
While the results are promising, future work is required to experimentally validate the computer model and make sure that the device would behave the right way in the real world. This research highlights the potential of a wave energy converter as a solution to coastal disaster recovery efforts.
- Academic Unit
- Mechanical Engineering
- Record Identifier
- 9985177073302771
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