The analytical 3D model of Renzi and Dias (2012) developed to investigate the resonant behaviour of an Oscillating Wave Surge Converter (OWSC) in a channel is used here to study the hydrodynamic loading on an array of devices in random seas. Within the framework of a linear theory, separation of variables and the application of Green's theorem yields a hypersingular integral equation for the velocity potential in the fluid domain. The latter is solved with a series expansion in terms of the Chebyshev polynomials of the second kind. The physical behaviour of the system is investigated demonstrating the effects of five different random sea states on the hydrodynamic loading on the converters. The most effective of the five sea states examined is shown to be a realistic case for a nearshore OWSC configuration off the west coast of Ireland.
The wave scattering by an infinite array of thin plates in the open ocean, used for the purpose of wave energy extraction is investigated here. Among the tasks necessary to describe the behaviour of such a system and to optimise its efficiency, the analysis of the scattering of the incident waves by the plates is of particular importance. Within the framework of a linear wave theory, the wave power P extracted by a single element of the array when pitching in incident waves depends on the square of the excitation torque FD acting on the element when it is fixed in incoming waves (Mei, Stiassnie and Yue; 2005). The model adopted here is based on the theoretical work of Renzi and Dias (2012), where a linear inviscid potential flow theory is devised for a single plate, either moving or fixed, in a channel.
