Wave Devouring Propulsion

Ocean waves possess a vast amount of energy ripe for utilisation. The UK urgently needs renewable energy solutions to achieve its Net Zero goals. The push to reduce CO2 emissions from shipping is supported by global agreements, national security concerns, economic benefits, public health, and ethical obligations.

A notable innovation aimed at decarbonising shipping is the flapping foil, a wave-powered propulsion device that enables self-propulsion without fuel. This eco-friendly propulsion method transforms wave energy into thrust through submerged flapping foils, creating Wave Devouring Propulsion (WDP). This technology has the potential to reduce fuel consumption in the shipping industry by 15%.

This PhD project aims to refine and expand the theory of wave-based thrust harvesting across diverse floating platforms such as floating wind turbines, floating solar panels, cargo ships, and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs), employing both computational and experimental methodologies.