College - Author 1
College of Engineering
Department - Author 1
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 2
College of Engineering
Department - Author 2
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 2
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 3
College of Engineering
Department - Author 3
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 3
BS in Mechanical Engineering
College - Author 4
College of Engineering
Department - Author 4
Mechanical Engineering Department
Degree - Author 4
BS in Mechanical Engineering
Date
6-2025
Primary Advisor
Kerry Lane, College of Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
The Expeditionary Ocean Power Generator (ExOPG) project is a point absorber wave energy converter developed by a team of five mechanical engineering seniors at California Polytechnic State University in partnership with NAVFAC EXWC. Designed to support U.S. Marine Corps operations, the device aims to reduce the reliance on diesel generators by generating and storing up to 100 watts of power from ocean waves in a sturdy and self-sufficient device.
The ExOPG device uses a rack and pinion mechanism driven by vertical wave motion to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy via a generator, which is then processed and stored by an electrical subsystem designed by a team of Cal Poly electrical engineers. The final design prioritizes ease of deployment, effective waterproofing using a dynamic O-ring seal, efficient power transmission from the rack to generator across a pinion shaft, and modularity to allow for future teams’ iteration on the project.
The final test deployment confirmed the mechanical system’s functionality and waterproofing, however yielded voltage output fluctuations of around only 3 volts from the incoming waves. The device’s internal weight distribution was not uniform about the center or equal with the center of buoyancy, producing a moment on the device and forcing it to sit at an angle in the water during operation. Thus, the device charged the battery a negligible amount (a few milliwatts) over the hour and a half test. Nonetheless, the system demonstrated viability as a proof of concept and provides a strong foundation for future development. Suggested improvements include redesigning the buoyancy to hold the housing more rigidly, refining the weight distribution for stability, and optimizing power generation for varied wave conditions.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/mesp/826
Project Poster
ME_S2025_6KL-D_FDR_Report.pdf (9134 kB)
Critical Design Review
ME_S2025_6KL-D_iBOM&Drawings.pdf (6770 kB)
iBOM and Drawing Package