Triton: Survivability Enhancement of a Multi-Mode Point Absorber

Abstract

The overall goal of this project was to design and validate a survival mode for the Triton WEC that allows for a reduction in peak loads, while simultaneously allowing for a reduction of capital cost due to the elimination of overdesign to account for uncertainty. In addition, the project sought to carefully understand performance of the design without survival mode engaged under extreme wave conditions so as to better understand how system loads vary and hence determine conditions where survival mode needs to be engaged, thereby allowing for an optimum balance between maximum power capture and acceptable risk within the capabilities of the design.