Abstract
This paper presents the development of a novel rare-earth magnet based wave power conversion system called Snapper. The Snapper concept is designed to increase relative velocities within its generator, thus creating the potential to reduce the size, weight and cost of the energy conversion system. This paper focuses on the generator, discusses the Snapper concept and also discusses the development of a prototype machine. In particular, attention is paid to the use of rare-earth magnets and some of the major mechanical challenges faced during design development.