Metaheuristic-based layout optimization of multiple heaving point-absorber wave energy converters near a vertical wall

초록

This study proposes an optimization framework to maximize power generation of multiple heaving pointabsorber wave energy converters (HPA-WECs) installed near a vertical wall. The framework couples a hydrodynamic solver with a hybrid Differential Evolution-Particle Swarm Optimization (DEPSO) algorithm-in house developed, in which the horizontal positions of the WECs are defined as design variables. The optimization is performed under irregular wave conditions using realistic wave data measured at three Korean coastal sites-Buan, Chilbaldo, and Yeongilmanhang-and the performance of DEPSO is shown to outperform that of the standalone DE and PSO approaches. Buan achieved the highest power output (2.4 & times; Chilbaldo and 1.5 & times; Yeongilmanhang). Despite its lower incident wave energy, the superior performance at Buan is mainly attributed to the closer alignment between the natural period of the WEC and the spectral peak period, resulting in a stronger resonance effect. This confirms that resonance alignment is a key factor in maximizing power performance. The optimal WEC positions converge toward the vertical wall, benefiting from wave amplification due to standing wave effects. Furthermore, the interaction factor q exceeds unity at all sites, confirming enhanced performance through constructive hydrodynamic interactions. These results provide practical guidance for designing efficient WEC array layouts near reflective boundaries.

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