A Hydrokinetic Energy Conversion System using Underwater LLC-type Resonant Converter

Hang Dai, Sayan Acharya, David Torrey, Xuan Yi, David Jasinski, Robert Thomas, Maja Harfman Todorovic, Vandana Rallabandi

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

The hydrokinetic energy of river and ocean currents is a valuable renewable energy resource. Conventional systems for harvesting hydrokinetic energy usually have bulky passive components, lengthy cables connecting the underwater turbine/generator with onshore power converters, and limited control over power generation. This paper presents a new hydrokinetic energy harvesting system using an LLC-type resonant converter that is placed underwater in close proximity to the generator. By using SiC devices and the soft switching characteristic of LLC resonant converter, the converter operates in 10s of kHz, significantly reducing the passive components. In addition, the LLC converter provides flexible power regulation of the system. Furthermore, the underwater placement of the power converter takes advantage of the cooling provided by the water and simplifies the system by reducing its connecting cable length.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2023 IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition, ECCE 2023
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages3273-3278
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9798350316445
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023
Event2023 IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition, ECCE 2023 - Nashville, United States
Duration: Oct 29 2023Nov 2 2023

Publication series

Name2023 IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition, ECCE 2023

Conference

Conference2023 IEEE Energy Conversion Congress and Exposition, ECCE 2023
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityNashville
Period10/29/2311/2/23

Keywords

  • alternative energy
  • hydrokinetic
  • LLC
  • resonant converter
  • soft switching

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