Dr Brendan Walsh

We would like to congratulate our colleague Brendan Walsh on achieving his PHD in Ocean Energy.  This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to his dedication and hard work over many years.

The research introduces and validates a novel Wave-Activated Sensor Power Buoy (WASP), an autonomous system designed to estimate ocean wave conditions using internal pressure measurements rather than traditional surface-following methods. Through a combination of laboratory-scale experiments and a four-month full-scale sea trial, the study developed a transfer function that accurately converts pressure data into wave surface characteristics. Results showed strong agreement with conventional wave buoy measurements, particularly in moderate to high-energy sea states, with key wave parameters such as significant wave height and period estimated within 10% accuracy.

While performance was reduced in low-energy conditions, the findings demonstrate the WASP’s potential as a compact, energy-efficient, and cost-effective alternative for coastal and offshore wave monitoring. The work also highlights opportunities for further optimisation, supporting the future development of next-generation ocean observation technologies.

Brendan has been a key member of the 2HQ team for 9 years and provides specialist civil engineering advice specialising in drainage design; SUDS; Flood risk assessments and general infrastructure works. 

A brilliant achievement and thoroughly deserved.