Design and experimental validation of hydraulic power generation module for compact ocean thermal energy conversion system

Ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) technology offers a viable solution to the long-term endurance challenges faced by ocean monitoring equipment. Through theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and experimental validation, this paper systematically explores the impact of hydraulic power generation module parameters on OTEC conversion efficiency, providing a theoretical foundation for the optimized design and practical application of compact OTEC systems. Based on analyzing the working principles of the hydraulic power generation module, an AMESim-Simulink co-simulation model was established, and the influence of key parameters on the system's power generation performance was systematically analyzed. The results indicate that increasing the nominal volume of the accumulator extends the energy release duration; increasing the pre-charge pressure reduces the total power generation output, while elevating the working pressure significantly enhances generation efficiency; the load magnitude has a minor impact on total power generation, exhibiting a non-monotonic variation pattern. Furthermore, a prototype experimental platform for a compact OTEC system was constructed. By conducting relevant experiments on the hydraulic power generation module, the reliability of the simulation model was validated. The influence of parameter variations within the platform on OTEC conversion and utilization efficiency was systematically analyzed, offering valuable insights for engineering design.