A Study of Ramp Shapes Configuration for Wave Energy Converter

Ocean wave energy has a positive impact on the development of wave energy converters (WECs). Overtopping breakwater for energy conversion (OBREC) is a current study device that integrates the wave energy converter with the existing breakwater. The efficiency of the device is determined by the overtopping wave collected in the reservoir which drives the low-head turbines. Previous researchers thoroughly investigated the effectiveness of devices with linear ramp shape configuration. However, the ramp has provided a low energy performance, particularly in mild wave conditions such as Malaysia, and this provides opportunities to further research into a variety of topics, including ramp shapes. Thus, the purpose of this study is to extend existing knowledge by experimentally investigating the performance of various geometrical ramp configurations in Malaysia environmental characteristics using polynomial equations. Various wave parameters and the effect of relative depth are used to obtain data on the device’s hydraulic performance. The results indicate that the cubic ramp shape is more effective in capturing overtopping wave and is 21.5% more efficient in reducing reflected wave compared to the linear shape. In addition, to compare the results with previous studies, this research used a non-dimensionless parameter; the breaker parameter and described the behavior of the structure against wave steepness. As a result, this research provides a good potential concept with a new finding on ramp parameter designs to empower wave energy and improve coastal defense structure, especially in Malaysian conditions.