On Analysis and Design of Submerged Wave Energy Devices

We invite applications for a Ph.D. position in Marine Hydrodynamics and Ocean Engineering at the University of Dundee, Scotland. The project aims in analyzing new generation of wave energy devices that are fully submerged, namely an Oscillating Submerged Disc, and a Wave Carpet.

Submerged wave energy devices are desirable due to (i) protection from the impact of breaking waves, (ii) elimination of visual and surface disturbances, (iii) their consistent performance under waves with different directions, and (iv) their simple energy production mechanism. An oscillating submerged body consists of a submerged, horizontal disc that oscillates in the vertical direction due to the surface waves. A wave carpet is an elastic plate that deforms due to the wave loads, and it can potentially extract the entire wave energy. In both devices, the disc oscillations and its deformation are transferred into electricity by use of a power take-off system. These submerged devices also function as a wave breaker to mitigate the severe impact of ocean waves on coastal areas.

The goal of this project is to study wave interaction with submerged energy devices and assess the energy production. This will be achieved by (i) conducting laboratory experiments in a dedicated wave flume on wave interaction with the energy devices, and (ii) by use of two theoretical approaches, namely the nonlinear shallow-water wave equations, and an open source Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software, OpenFOAM. Extensive tutorials will be provided on first learning the theories before applying them to this problem.

The project will be carried out in collaboration with a university in China. All costs associated to visits of China (when needed) will be covered by the project.

Diversity statement

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.