Structural Optimization Analysis of Autonomous Wave Energy Converter Based on Maximum Power Output

In order to improve the energy conversion efficiency of autonomous wave energy converter, a novel optimization analysis method is proposed based on heave and pitch two-degree-of-freedom modeling and maximum power calculation. First of all, a restrained spring system is introduced to approximate the heave and pitch motion of autonomous wave energy converter, which simplifies the force analysis and modeling process. Then, similar to the spring system, a quantitative power computational model is constructed to illustrate the influence of the damping coefficient and wave frequency. Finally, through numerical calculation with statistical wave data of China’s offshore, the optimal power take off (PTO) damping coefficient and wave frequency is obtained, providing a reference for subsequent structural optimization design.