Hydroelastic analysis of a coupled porous structure in finite water depth

Scattering of oblique waves by a system consisting of a thin floating porous-elastic plate and a rectangular submerged porous structure is investigated. The plate is modeled by combining the thin plate theory and a complex porous-effect parameter, and the Sollitt and Cross model is used for flow through the submerged porous structure. A matched eigenfunction method is employed and roots of dispersion relations associated with the system and its components are investigated using contour plots. Scattering coefficients are evaluated and analyzed for various wave and structure parameters and the influence of each component on wave forces acting on the other is examined. The study reveals that plate porosity, along with variation in height and width of the system have a significant impact on scattering and mitigation of wave forces. A phenomenon of reversal in pattern of reflection coefficients with respect to incident angle for varying heights of the submerged structure is observed. A comparative analysis highlights the key features of scattering and energy dissipation by plate, rubblemound and coupled structure. The results of this study can be used for designing a composite breakwater or to analyze the performance of a floating breakwater in the presence of inhomogeneous bottom topography.

Automated summary

Scattering of oblique waves by a system consisting of a thin floating porous-elastic plate and a rectangular submerged porous structure is investigated. The study reveals that plate porosity, along with variation in height and width of the system have a significant impact on scattering and mitigation of wave forces.