A method to Estimate Dynamic Responses of VLFS Based on Multi-Floating-Module Model Connected by Elastic Hinges

Based on the elastic foundation beam theory and the multi-floating-module hydrodynamic theory, a novel method is proposed to estimate the dynamic responses of VLFS (Very Large Floating Structure). In still water, a VLFS can be simplified as an elastic foundation beam model or a multi-floating-module model connected by elastic hinges. According to equivalent displacement of the two models in static analysis, the problem of rotation stiffness of elastic hinges can be solved. Then, based on the potential flow theory, the dynamic responding analysis of multi-floating-module model under wave loads can be computed in ANSYS-AQWA software. By assembling the time domain analysis results of each module, the dynamic responses of the VLFS can be obtained. Validation of the method is conducted through a series of comparison calculations, which mainly includes a continuous structure and a three-part structure connected by hinges in regular waves. The results of this paper method show a satisfactory agreement with the experiment and calculation data given in relative references.

Automated summary

A novel method is proposed to estimate the dynamic responses of VLFS using the elastic foundation beam theory and the multi-floating-module hydrodynamic theory. By solving the rotation stiffness problem of elastic hinges through static analysis, the dynamic responses of VLFS can be obtained. The validation of the method shows satisfactory agreement with experiment and calculation data from relative references.