(P61) Shape optimization of self-reacting point absorber using genetic algorithm

The power capture performance of a self reacting point absorber (SRPA) is evaluated for independent design modifications (float and torus) under the regular and real wave conditions. While increasing the torus' outer diameter moves the natural frequency of the SRPA to lower periods and reduces the peak absorbed power by 75%; increasing the draft length of the torus increases the peak absorbed power of the system by 50%. The float design is altered by varying the damping plate diameter and cylinder length. The power capture performance of the SRPA increases with the increasing diameter of the damping plate. A genetic algorithm (GA) based optimization method is then used to optimize the shape of a two-body self reacting point absorber (SRPA). The energy flux of the SRPA is used as a cost function to optimize both bodies (float and torus) simultaneously. The results are then compared to the commonly used optimization method were the float and torus are optimized independently by keeping the other body constant. The optimized damping plate diameter showed four times increase in peak absorbed power, whereas increasing the float's cylinder length showed three times increase in peak absorbed power. The combined optimization technique showed two times increase in absorbed power under real wave conditions.