3DCAD conceptual design of the next-generation impulse turbine using the Pugh decision-matrix

Achieving the economic and viability of power generation from wave energy requires design and development of new and improved machinery. This paper displays the design of an improved impulse turbine using a systematic method, which combines two powerful design tools, i.e. Pugh concept analysis and 3DCAD environment. Using this approach allows the user to combine the strength of Pugh’s method and the design space, allowing the concept selection process to be streamlined. This brings new concept in the mechanical design field, which is inline with the technological trends prevalent in the industry. The capabilities of the proposed approach is applied in a case study that considers impulse turbine wave energy extraction optimum design. The latter was arrived at by combining and/or refining the alternatives as the process develops. Furthermore, the optimum design has been tested for structural performance using structural analysis integrated within the 3DCAD environment. The results show a moderate design stress which would relax the manufacturing technique, and yet with a good safety factor.