Geometry-inclusive controller co-design: Inerter and heave plate optimization for a self-reacting point absorber

Friedl, Luke2026-07-132026-07-132026-07-08Friedl, L. (2026) Geometry-inclusive controller co-design: Inerter and heave plate optimization for a self-reacting point absorber. IESVic Energy Brief.https://hdl.handle.net/1828/24064Key messages • Wave energy is underutilized globally due to its high cost versus wind and solar. • Adding a heave plate to a WEC can boost potential power production up to 5x in some sea states. • Co-designing WEC geometry with its controller, tuned to site conditions, boosts energy output. • An inerter, an inertial control device, can greatly widen a converter's efficient frequency range. • These findings support location-specific, geometry-inclusive optimization of wave energy tech.enInstitute for Integrated Energy Systems (IESVic)West Coast Wave InitiativeGeometry-inclusive controller co-design: Inerter and heave plate optimization for a self-reacting point absorberOtherDepartment of Mechanical Engineering