Wave energy systems for recharging AUV energy supplies

Abstract

This paper describes ocean wave energy resources and characterizes their global distribution and temporal variability. It presents an overview of wave energy conversion devices that have progressed beyond the laboratory wave tank and have been proven at sea, and which lend themselves to miniaturization and packaging in a configuration suitable for recharging AUV power supplies from a docking station base. Finally, it describes a wave-powered docking station concept that takes advantage of ocean engineering developments in rapidly deployed mooring systems and artificial, submerging seafloors to provide a relocatable AUV dock that also can serve as a sustainable "gateway" platform for undersea observatories.