Analytical Investigation of the Wave-Induced Responses of Very Large Floating Structures

9532037 Riggs术语超大型浮式结构物（VLFS）通常用于描述比现有浮式结构物大至少一个数量级的浮式结构物。 在VLFS的定义中隐含的是，这些结构的波致运动将受到结构的柔性变形运动的显著影响，如果不是主导的话。 这与传统的浮式结构（如船舶）形成对比，传统浮式结构的设计和分析通常基于刚体的流体动力学。 VLFS技术的潜在应用包括海上废物处理厂、发电厂、海水淡化厂、海水养殖平台、海洋学研究设施、机场和军事基地。 不幸的是，作为VLFS设计基础的现场数据和经验仅限于小得多的结构。 这一项目的目标是进一步发展分析能力，并从根本上了解VLFS对海洋环境的反应。 由于其规模和复杂性，需要有效的方法和简化模型进行设计和分析。 本文提出的工作建立在现有的大型浮式结构物的分析技术基础上。 在建造任何VLFS之前都需要进行此类工作，因此其结果将代表最先进的海上浮式结构技术的重大进步。 本研究计画提出：1）改善现有的线性分析方法; 2）建立简化的分析模型以供设计使用; 3）发展非线性分析方法以决定极端事件的反应。 ***

9532037 Riggs The term very large floating structure (VLFS) is often used to describe floating structures which are at lease an order of magnitude larger than existing floating structures. Implicit in the definition of VLFS is that the wave-induced motions of these structures will be significantly affected, if not dominated, by the flexible, deformational motion of the structure. This is in contrast to traditional floating structures (such as a ship), the design and analysis of which are usually based on the hydrodynamics of a rigid body. Potential applications of VLFS technology include offshore waste treatment plants, electrical power plants, water desalination plants, mariculture platforms, oceanographic research facilities, airports, and military bases. Unfortunately, the field data and experience upon which to base the design of a VLFS is limited to much smaller structures. It is the objective of this project to develop further the analysis capabilities and the fundamental understanding of the response of VLFSs to the ocean environment. Because of their size and complexity, efficient methods and simplified models are required for their design and analysis. The work proposed herein builds on the existing technology base for the analysis of large floating structures. Such work is required prior to the construction of any VLFS, and hence the results will represent a significant advancement in the state-of-the-art in offshore floating structure technology. This research program proposed to: 1) improve existing linear analysis methods; 2) establish simplified analysis models to be used for design; and 3) develop a nonlinear analysis methodology to determine the response to extreme events. ***