4. Shape optimization

The ultimate aim of the SEAREV project is to design an economically viable wave energy recovery system for a moderate resource level, of the order of $20\text{kW/m}$ . Naturally, the aim is to maximize energy production while minimizing manufacturing and operating costs.

As we have seen, the energy production of this type of system is closely linked to its response to the incident swell. Considering a given site, wave statistics are fixed, and maximizing energy production means adapting the system's response to the site.

What parameters determine the SEAREV's response? Obviously, all the mechanical parameters, such as float mass and pendulum wheel mass, are variables to be taken into account....