The interaction factor and directionality in wave energy arrays

This paper considers arrays of wave energy devices consisting of oscillating rigid bodies undergoing optimum displacements in regular waves. A previously published identity concerning the directional behaviour of the interaction factor, q (which characterises an important effect of the array configuration in the context of point absorber theory), is shown to be valid under more general conditions. In fact, this identity is shown to be a consequence of a more fundamental result. Boundary element hydrodynamic calculations carried out on simple three-member arrays are shown to be consistent with these theoretical proofs. Some aspects of the behaviour of the arrays are also investigated.

► We consider power absorption by arrays of oscillating bodies in regular waves. ► We show that the directional average of the interaction factor is unity. ► We show that there is a more fundamental identity underlying the above result. ► These results are supported by BEM hydrodynamic calculations on simple arrays.