Abstract
The paper deals with the evaluation of the optimum wave-power absorption characteristics of arrays of interacting wave-energy devices. The hydrodynamic interference effects among the devices are exactly accounted for using a method that can solve the problem to any desired accuracy. The method is based on single-body hydrodynamic characteristics that are properly combined through the physical idea of multiple scattering to account for interaction effects. Extensive numerical results for a variety of different array arrangements and individual device geometries are presented and comparisons are made to predictions based on approximate theories, the accuracy of which is critically assessed.