Budal's latching-controlled-buoy type wave-power plant

Results are presented from previous investigations of three different versions of latching-controlled, axisymmetric, wave-power buoys, intended to operate in the heave mode, and to force-react against anchors on the sea bed. One of them had hydraulic machinery for control and power take-off, while the two others had a latching mechanism for control and pneumatic power take-off. One of the three versions utilised an oscillating water column contained in a heaving structure. Hulls of various shapes were examined: cylindrical with hemispherical base, conical with the widest part up, and, finally, spherical. Model tests were performed that indicate reasonable agreement with theory. Technical assessments of full-scale power buoys indicated the necessity for further development work on some of the components. Economic assessments showed that these power buoys, in their present state of development, could not yet compete commercially with hydroelectric power plants in Norway. 1