Numerical Study of Wave Energy Converter Platform Geometry Layout Design

The present work is aimed at determining the optimal geometry layout of a wave energy converter platform for plate energy harvesting performance. A linear potential fluid theory method was applied to analyzing the interaction between the platform and plate. Three factors of layout geometry were tested and the performance of the plate was analyzed. The methodology of design of experiments was used to confirm factor significance and build response surface model. The 1st order model and the 2nd order model were built to describe the relation between factors and plate performance. The significance of two factors and their interactions were revealed, and an optimal parameter set was found. The wave form in front of the plate confirmed the interactions. It is clear that a wide entrance and enclosing channel for waves can maximize the plate performance. © 2022, Shanghai Jiao Tong University.