Abstract
A novel floating-array-buoys wave energy converter (FABWEC) system integrating multi-point absorption wave energy capturing technology and single-point catenary mooring technology is proposed in this study. The research contents of this paper mainly focus on the stability and survivability of the proposed FABWEC system under the rated sea conditions. Numerical simulation and experimental validation are developed, and the comparisons of system performances between experimental and simulated results are performed. The results show that the maximum mooring tension occurs when the inclination angle of anchor chain is 30° under the environment loads of 180°. Under an extreme environmental condition, the safety factor of maximum mooring force is 9.49 which meets the internationally recognized safety requirement for the mooring system, and the maximum displacement of the wave power platform occurs in surge is 14.03 m and the maximum angle occurs in pitch is −6.99°. The experimental motion curves are basically consistent with the simulated results, and the power platform ultimately reaches a stable position during the experiments. According to the simulated and experimental investigation, the stability and survivability of the FABWEC system are effectively confirmed. Significantly, this study provides a beneficial experience for the practical application and stable operation of WECs.