MAE Seminar – Distributed Embedded Energy Converter Technologies (DEEC-Tec)

Details

MAE Seminar – Distributed Embedded Energy Converter Technologies (DEEC-Tec)

October 24, 2024 at 12:50pm, Location: MAE-A 303

Dr. Blake Boren
Technology Innovation, Modeling,and Assessment Engineer
National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

Abstract
This presentation will provide an overview of Distributed Embedded Energy Converter Technologies (DEEC-Tec), an innovative research area in marine renewable energy developed by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). DEEC-Tec uses numerous small-scale energy converters (DEECs) combined to form metamaterials, which are then integrated into larger structures that convert ocean wave energy into electricity and desalinated water. The presentation will cover the three levels of DEEC-Tec technology: individual DEECs, DEEC-Tec metamaterials, and complete energy conversion systems that are constructed from those metamaterials. The presentation will also highlight NREL’s advancements in prototype development, design methods, material technologies, and evaluation tools. Lastly, the presentation will address the unique benefits of DEEC-Tec, such as broad-band energy absorption and mechanical redundancy, as well as the challenges in this emerging field. Attendees will gain insight into how DEEC-Tec could transform marine renewable energy with its adaptable, efficient, and cost-effective solutions.

Biography
Blake Boren is a researcher with over a decade of experience in marine renewable energy technologies, spanning both industry and academia. Dr. Boren received a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Oregon State University in 2015 and currently serves as a Technology Innovation, Modeling, and Assessment Engineer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). Dr. Boren’s work at NREL focuses on developing innovative methods to convert ocean wave energy into practical forms, such as electricity and desalinated water. Prior to joining NREL, Dr. Boren was a Modeling and Controls Engineer at an ocean wave energy startup, where he helped lead the numerical and controls team. He later held a postdoctoral position at Virginia Tech, conducting high-fidelity fluid-structure interaction analyses for ocean energy converters. With expertise in dynamics, controls, embedded systems, and numerical modeling, Dr. Boren is committed to advancing renewable energy solutions to address global energy challenges.

MAE Faculty Host: Dr. Patrick Musgrave