The ComMotion project : Computational methods for moving and deforming objects in extreme waves

Abstract

Wave forces can form a serious threat to offshore platforms and ships. The damage produced by these forces of nature jeopardizes their operability as well as the well-being of their crews. Similar remarks apply to coastal defense systems. To develop the knowledge needed to safely design these constructions, in close cooperation with MARIN and the offshore industry the numerical simulation method ComFLOW is being developed. So far, its development was focussed on predicting wave loads (green water, slamming) on fixed structures, and for those applications the method is already being used successfully by the offshore industry. Often, the investigated object (ship, floating platform) is dynamically moving under the influence of these wave forces, and its hydrodynamic loading depends upon the position of the object with respect to the oncoming waves. Predicting the position (and deformation) of the body is an integral part of the (scientific and engineering) problem. The paper will give an overview of the algorithmic developments necessary to describe the abovementioned physical phenomena. In particular attention will be paid to fluid-solid body and fluid-structure interaction and nonreflecting outflow boundary conditions. Several illustrations including validation, will demonstrate the prediction capabilities of the simulation method. ∗Address all correspondence to this author.