The development of the wave energy converter Wave Dragon (WD) is presented. The WD is based on the overtopping principle. Initially a description of the WD is given. Then the development over time in terms of the various research and development projects working with the concept is described. This is followed by a description of the different parts of the structure together with a description of how this specific design has been chosen. Plans for the future development are finally presented.
In recent years wave energy has gradually been brought into focus as it has become clear that fossil energy resources are limited and cause large environmental problems, e.g. CO2 pollution. In the light of this a number of different wave energy converters have been proposed. In Denmark the government decided to appropriate 40 mill. DKK (approx. 5.4 mill. EUR) to the development of wave energy devices during a period of four years, 1998–2001, and the European Union (EU) also supports the development through the JOULE program. Among the wave energy concepts receiving financial support from both programs is the WD.
The WD is a floating wave energy converter of the overtopping type. It is developed by Erik Friis-Madsen from the Danish engineering company Löwenmark Consulting Engineers. The WD can briefly be described as consisting of three components (see Figure 1, 2 and 3):
Two wave reflectors for focusing the waves.
A ramp leading the waves to the reservoir by overtopping.
A number of low head turbines for converting the hydraulic head and flow into electricity.
The main parts of each of the two wave reflectors are made of 12 equal straight elements. In addition, a longer element with less draught is attached at the end.
