WEC System Identification and Model Validation

Numerical models for wave energy converters (WECs) are utilized in a number areas within the design process. These include, but are not limited to, performance assessment, control design, and survival analysis. Thus, the accuracy of such a model is paramount to design of a WEC. WEC dynamic models can take a number of forms. At the most basic level, the model should capture the rigidbody dynamics based on hydromechanic, kinematic and mechanical considerations. Additional components, capturing power take-off (PTO), realistic mooring systems, and transmission, should ideally be included to produce a so-called “wave-to-wire” model. Here, we focus on the hydrodynamic component of such models. WEC hydrodynamic models are often based on a radiation/diffraction model (see, e.g., [1]). (