Velocity field measurements under Very Large Floating Structures interacting with surface waves

Esra Uksul*, Angeliki Laskari, Sebastian Schreier, Christian Poelma

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleScientificpeer-review

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Abstract

Increasing utilization of ocean space and a global push for renewable energy solutions has spurred interest in wave behavior around Very Large Floating Structures, like floating photovoltaic (PV) systems. Flexible PV modules may be more suitable for the varying wave conditions found in offshore environments. However, while viscoelastic models are commonly used for wave prediction, they show notable discrepancies with experiments, likely due to untested assumptions of inviscid flow. This experimental study aims to fill that gap by investigating both the wave characteristics and velocity fields underneath flexible and rigid structures using simultaneous Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and wave elevation measurements. Wave attenuation is observed for short wavelengths over the flexible structure length. The 2nd order Stokes wave theory provides a good approximation of the wave-induced horizontal velocity profiles under the flexible structure but underestimates the velocities under the rigid one which further lacks the typical exponential decay with water depth. The presence of a wave boundary layer is showcased and compared to an adaptation of the Stokes 2nd problem.

Original languageEnglish
Article number119759
Number of pages9
JournalOcean Engineering
Volume315
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2025

Keywords

  • Characteristic length
  • Fluid–structure interactions
  • Very Large Floating Structure (VLFS)
  • Wave attenuation
  • Wave boundary layer

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