Optimisation of wave-power arrays without prescribed geometry over incident wave angle

This paper describes the optimisation of arrays wave energy converters (WECs) point absorber type. The WECs are spherical in shape and operate heave only. Previous work is extended to an array layouts without a prescribed geometry. objective function chosen as mean interaction factor over range incident angles. formulation forces perform optimally specified angle, direct concern for wavelength variations. Both constrained unconstrained WEC motions considered, with optimisations limiting device displacements two or three times amplitude. increased freedom this more general results 70% 140% increase values compared analogous linear optimisations. As previous studies nature, tend contain closely spaced larger displacement amplitudes, whereas optimal widely spaced. It shown that angle has great effect on layout, better performance achieved smaller ranges due tuning members. A previously identified trade-off arrays, between stability different parameters, not apply layouts.