Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 20, 2026
08:54
Measurements of Waves in a Wind-wave Tank Under Steady and Time-varying Wind Forcing
Published on: February 13, 2018
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Tiny-T: A small-scale demonstration tank for real-time wave energy control.
Pedro Fornaro1, Jacopo Ramello2, Facundo Daniel Mosquera3
1Centre for Ocean Energy Research, Department of Electronic Engineering, National University of Ireland Maynooth, Ireland.
Hardwarex
|January 19, 2026
Summary
Researchers built an affordable, small-scale wave energy converter (WEC) demonstrator called Tiny-T. This system showcases electronic WEC control at 1/100 scale, making wave energy research more accessible.
Area of Science:
- Renewable Energy Engineering
- Ocean Engineering
- Control Systems
Background:
- Wave energy conversion is a promising renewable energy source.
- Implementing effective control systems for wave energy converters (WECs) is crucial for efficiency.
- Existing small-scale demonstrators are often expensive and complex, limiting accessibility for research and education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a detailed description and step-by-step process for building a low-cost, small-scale wave energy tank demonstrator.
- To demonstrate the first operative electronic control system for a WEC at a 1/100 scale.
- To provide a comprehensive guide for constructing and testing the Tiny-T system.
Main Methods:
- Design and construction of a small-scale wave energy converter (WEC).
- Integration of an active electronic control system for WEC operation.
- System testing and validation of performance at 1/100 scale.
Main Results:
- Successful construction of the Tiny-T demonstrator at a cost below €600.
- Demonstration of electronic WEC control at a 1/100 scale, a first for this size.
- The system serves as a valuable, accessible experimental platform for introductory research.
Conclusions:
- The Tiny-T system offers an affordable and effective platform for wave energy research and education.
- This demonstrator lowers the barrier to entry for studying wave energy and real-time control technologies.
- Tiny-T facilitates broader engagement with renewable energy research at both high school and university levels.
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