System Design and Operation: Bio-Inspired Structures for Tidal Energy Harvesting

Led by: Oscar Curet, Ph.D.
Affiliated Home Campus: Boca Raton
Affiliated Department: Ocean and Mechanical Engineering

PROJECT

Tidal flows contain a potential source of renewable energy for many coastal locations in the US. However, most conventional devices that convert hydrokinetic energy to electrical power (e.g. large turbines) are not a good match for many locations. Therefore, we will look at a bio-inspired structure for harvesting tidal stream energy. In particular, we will explore a mangrove-inspired energy harvesting device developed at FAU. This device consists of one or more oscillating cylinders that are partially submerged in the water and an electric generator composed of fixed magnets and a winding, with a steel plate providing a restoring spring force. In this project we will characterize energy harvested at different arrangements including staggered and tandem configurations. This work is the continuation of a previous REU site effort (see 2017-2019, 2021-2022 “Projects and Participants” on this website)

Figure. Left: Mangrove trees are characterized by a complex root system. Center: flow visualization behind a patch of cylinder. Right: proof-of-concept device inspired in mangrove roots for energy harvesting of tidal flow.