Harnessing the untapped potential of wave energy demands advanced modelling tools that accurately represent wave energy converters (WECs) and facilitate the optimization of their designs. This paper introduces two new numerical models of the TALOS WEC concept currently under development by Lancaster University, UK
[1]. In this project we employ HydroChrono - a fully opensource hydrodynamics package for the open-source multibody dynamics software, Project Chrono [2]. HydroChrono enables potential flow-based modelling of WECs and offers the flexibility to explore various design configurations, which is demonstrated in the results section. Confidence in our model’s accuracy is established via comparisons with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, performed with Ansys Fluent. HydroChrono enables us to vary key design parameters of the TALOS WEC, including mass distribution and Power Take-Off (PTO) properties - which can offer insights for future design improvements. Looking ahead, the application of HydroChrono for WEC numerical modelling offers pathways to more sophisticated analyses. This includes potential integration with the MoorDyn package for nonlinear mooring dynamics, and the possibility of detailed hydraulic drivetrain modeling. These developments facilitate more detailed performance prediction and system optimization for wave energy conversion technology, leading to more cost-effective and efficient marine renewable energy solutions.