Optimization of Buoy Shape for Wave Energy Converter Based on Particle Swarm Algorithm

In order to improve the wave energy capture rate of the buoy of a wave energy generation device, this paper proposes a multi-degree of freedom method to optimize the shape of the buoy with maximum wave energy capture. Firstly, a multi-degree of freedom wave energy converter was designed, and the buoy shape was defined using a B-spline curve to generate the shape vector; then, a numerical model of the multi-degree of freedom wave energy converter was established and numerical calculations were carried out using AQWA/WEC-Sim software; on this basis, the particle swarm optimization algorithm was introduced to find the buoy shape corresponding to the maximum wave energy capture. Finally, the optimization of the buoy shape was in irregular waves. The results show that as the wave energy capture increased, the buoy shape tended to be flatter, with a smaller taper, and the optimal buoy shape had a better motion response than the conventional cone buoy. Eventually, the correctness of the buoy shape optimization method was verified through experimental testing.