Axisymmetric reflectors in wave energy converter arrays: Harnessing scattering to increase energy extraction

We elucidate the effect of non-extracting reflectors on performance wave energy converter (WEC) arrays. consider an infinitely periodic row converters parallel to discrete axisymmetric (C-R arrays), and we study how spatial configuration affects extraction. Using a multiple-scattering algorithm for linear wave-array interactions, conduct series simulations C-R arrays range parameters, wavenumbers, incident angles. find that can significantly increase extraction compared WEC array by itself. offer simplified theoretical model, based far-field response rows in isolation, which shows large increases result from constructive Bragg Laue interferences caused interactions with reflector row. For pertinent case waves WEC-resonant frequency, optimized achieve gains O(500%). Remarkably, optimal extracts more than two even though consists only half as many WECs.