Simulation-Based Engineering Approaches for Renewable Energy Conversion Systems

Abstract

The article provides a brief overview of the existing simulation-based engineering approaches with main focus on applications in analysis and simulation of renewable energy conversion systems. Among available numerical simulation tools, the study focuses on finite element analysis and multibody dynamics simulation techniques that are currently attracting the major research attention. Any mechanical simulation task presupposes existence of a simulation model, commonly in a computer-aided design tool. Thus, the approach used to merge design data with other computer-aided engineering environment is discussed and elaborated. This approach is particularly beneficial for design optimization of wind and wave converters to be installed at harsh and unfriendly environment for testing physical prototypes.