Optimal and robust methodologies for nonlinear control systems with applications to the control of renewable wave-energy converters

Project Description

This project is a theoretical study at the interface of mathematics and control engineering, investigating mathematical models which arise in the context of renewable wave-energy converters. Research into wave-energy is an active area, with strong relevance for helping the UK meet its renewable energy and net zero targets. There are natural challenges associated with extracting energy from the sea, where physical experiments are expensive owing to the inherently hostile operating environment, and research in this area is still in its infancy compared to other renewable technologies. There is consequently much value in theoretical research which can help obviate later testing costs and speed up commercialisation of wave-energy devices. The proposed research shall provide novel understanding of how to trade off robustness and optimality in extracting wave-energy from the sea. The ultimate outputs of the fundamental research proposed are strongly aligned with the Scottish Government National Outcomes of environment and economy.