A phase-resolving wave model to simulate the interactions between waves and wave energy converters

Presently phase-averaged wave models are typically used to assess the optimal site for arrays of wave energy converters (WEC). However, such models invariably do not fully account for all relevant processes (e.g., diffraction and the wave-structure interactions). In this work, we set out to assess whether such predictions can be improved by using the more advanced class of phase-resolving wave models to predict the two-way coupled responses of WECs and surface wave fields. We present an extension to the existing non-hydrostatic wave-flow model SWASH to account for the wave scattering by a submerged WEC (similar to the CETO device, developed by Carnegie Wave Energy). Model predictions are compared to an eigenfunction expansion solution of the potential flow equations. The modified SWASH model captured the scattering of the waves, and the hydrodynamic loads that act on the submerged obstacle. These findings demonstrate that the model has the potential to simulate the wave-WEC interactions. Future work will focus on extending the model to account for the response of the WEC, including the power-take off and the radiation of waves from the devices.