Influence of geometric modifications on the hydrodynamic performance of a two-body wave energy converter

Wave energy converters (WECs) are highly sensitive to geometric design, which directly affects hydrodynamic response and energy capture efficiency. This study investigates the influence of geometric modifications on the hydrodynamic behavior of a two-body floating WEC using a combined experimental-numerical approach. Wave tank experiments were conducted under regular wave conditions using a 1:10 scale model to characterize the baseline response and validate the numerical model developed in ANSYS AQWA. Two geometric modifications were examined numerically: window openings in the outer buoy and elongation of the connecting tube between the buoys. The window configuration reduced relative motion amplitude by approximately 7%, lowering energy capture potential. In contrast, elongation of the connecting tube increased relative motion by up to 20%, improving power take-off performance. The results demonstrate the significant role of geometry-driven coupling effects in the optimization of multi-body floating WEC systems..