Abstract
A parameter optimization method for an oscillating buoy-type wave energy converter (WEC) is presented from the perspective of submerged buoy volume; which affects both the power production and cost investment. The effects of submerged buoy volume on the optimal power capture are studied using the differential evolution algorithm and linear potential flow theory. The cost indictor V/P (V and P representing submerged buoy volume and power capture, respectively) is introduced to measure the cost-effectiveness of the WECs. The power capture and cost performance of the optimized WECs in regular and irregular waves are discussed. The results show that the WEC with the large power take-off (PTO) damping has good adaptability to a range of wave frequencies; however, the optimal submerged buoy volume is not cost-efficient due to the consequent relatively large cost indicators. The best choice of WEC in terms of cost-effectiveness is one designed with a large PTO damping and a buoy of slightly small non-optimal submerged volume.