(EP897471-A1)      The wave energy converter comprises a buoyant body (11) and an acceleration tube (14) dependent from and attached to the buoyant body. A section of the acceleration tube between the upper and lower ends defines a working cylinder (16) with openings above and below it allowing unobstructed water flow between the cylinder and the body of water in which it is immersed.    A piston (17) reciprocates in the working cylinder with a relief passage at the ends of the cylinder controlled by the working piston as the piston moves in the cylinder. A pair of single-acting hydraulic piston pumps (19,20) are associated with the ends of the piston rod in a push-pull arrangement connected to energy absorbing equipment.    ADVANTAGE -   Rapidly and reliably returns working piston into working cylinder whenever it is moved outside its normal working range.    (EP897471-B1)      The wave energy converter comprises a buoyant body (11) and an acceleration tube (14) dependent from and attached to the buoyant body. A section of the acceleration tube between the upper and lower ends defines a working cylinder (16) with openings above and below it allowing unobstructed water flow between the cylinder and the body of water in which it is immersed.    A piston (17) reciprocates in the working cylinder with a relief passage at the ends of the cylinder controlled by the working piston as the piston moves in the cylinder. A pair of single-acting hydraulic piston pumps (19,20) are associated with the ends of the piston rod in a push-pull arrangement connected to energy absorbing equipment.    ADVANTAGE -   Rapidly and reliably returns working piston into working cylinder whenever it is moved outside its normal working range.    (US6226989-B1)      The wave energy converter comprises a buoyant body (11) and an acceleration tube (14) dependent from and attached to the buoyant body. A section of the acceleration tube between the upper and lower ends defines a working cylinder (16) with openings above and below it allowing unobstructed water flow between the cylinder and the body of water in which it is immersed.    A piston (17) reciprocates in the working cylinder with a relief passage at the ends of the cylinder controlled by the working piston as the piston moves in the cylinder. A pair of single-acting hydraulic piston pumps (19,20) are associated with the ends of the piston rod in a push-pull arrangement connected to energy absorbing equipment.    ADVANTAGE -   Rapidly and reliably returns working piston into working cylinder whenever it is moved outside its normal working range.