Project Title: Development of a shoreline wave energy converter
Doctoral Candidate: Saeed OSOULI
Project Description: The project focuses on developing a shoreline wave energy converter based on the OBREC (Overtopping Breakwater for Energy Conversion) concept. A comprehensive numerical modeling chain is employed to analyze various ramp configurations under different wave climates, especially during storm conditions. An analytical model is first used to transfer offshore wave data to the nearshore area. Subsequently, a shallow water solver simulates wave behavior within a harbor environment, providing boundary conditions for a CFD model that evaluates ramp geometry and the design of the water-conveying system. The
performance of different setups is assessed to maximize energy capture and flow efficiency. A prototype-scale model will be constructed at the Port of Ancona, Italy, where it will be monitored under real marine conditions to enable future design optimization. A key objective of the project is to compare alternative conveying systems: one discharging overtopped water behind the structure, and another directing it back towards the sea.