Equivalent design wave approach for structural analysis of floating pendulum wave energy converter

Abstract

Offshore structures are installed in a variety of water depths, under harsh environments, for long stretches of time, and waves are the most interrelated factor directly affecting their structural integrity. Thus, such structures should be designed to satisfy the demands of wave characteristics. In the preliminary structural design phase, a method for predicting non-linear random wave characteristics and extreme wave conditions must be determined. A structural response is not a linear value corresponding to maximum wave height, due to the related periods; that is, certain waves of less than maximum height may have greater effects on a structure depending on the wave period. This study focuses on selecting design conditions that generate a significant hydrodynamic load on a floating pendulum wave energy converter (FPWEC). For this purpose, it finds an equivalent regular wave height capable of generating the same hydrodynamic load, critical wave period and wave direction by conducting a response analysis. Generally, the subsequent equivalent design wave conditions are used to investigate an FPWEC's global strength. This study also applies a global structural analysis for the FPWEC using the determined equivalent design wave. The obtained results should be useful for understanding the global structural responses of FPWECs.