Hydro - Structure interactions

Technical Bulletin 2012

In parallel with the development of complex hydrodynamic models, BV’s Research department has invested a significant amount of effort in the development of efficient hydro-structure interaction models. Indeed, the evaluation of structural response is another critical factor in the application of those design methodologies which are based on the direct calculation method. Hydrodynamic simulation is essential to overall evaluation of the global behaviour of floating bodies, although the ultimate objective of the class society’s duties is evaluation of the structural integrity of the floating unit. In this respect, the correct load transfer of hydrodynamic quantities (pressure, velocity, and inertia) to the FE structural model is absolutely essential for the evaluation of stress distribution inside the structure. Technical difficulties related to hydro-structure interaction modelling depend to a great extent on the nature of the floating body, so that the corresponding numerical tools need to be continuously adapted. Extensive research by BV’s R&D department ensures that up-to-date tools and methods are able to deal with all practical hydro-structure interaction issues. One issue which has assumed increasing importance recently is the hydroelastic structural response of highly flexible structures such as ultra-large container ships, ultra- large LNG carriers, and large floating wind turbines, which may require more complex hydroelastic structural interaction models.  Contrary to the classic quasi-static hydro-structure models, the basic assumption of the hydroelastic model is that fluid flow is directly influenced by structural deformation, and vice-versa. As a result, full coupling inbetween hydrodynamic and structural models is necessary. The Bureau Veritas general hydro-structure interaction tool Homer is the leading software in this field, providing consistent evaluation of hydroelastic structural response.

Different papers presented in this section detail the most recent improvements to Homer. In addition to wave structural loading, another important factor in Arctic regions is ice loading. The dedicated numerical software IceStar is being developed in co-operation with Saint Petersburg University, and recent advances are presented in the next section.

CONTENTS