MAE 6350

Wave Interactions with Offshore Systems

Course Description

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2022-2023.

Wave energy converters, offshore wind turbines, liquified natural gas (LNG) vessels, and autonomous underwater vehicles are some examples of offshore systems that are affected by ocean waves. This course presents the analytical framework to analyze the interactions these types of systems and ambient ocean waves. We begin by discussing surface wave theory and properties of regular surface waves and random ocean waves. We then discuss the linearized theory of floating body dynamics along with kinematic and dynamic free surface conditions and body boundary conditions that arise in the ocean setting. We consider simple harmonic motions and both diffraction and radiation problems of waves. We derive key hydrodynamic coefficients of offshore systems such as added mass, damping, and stiffness. Finally, we discuss ship seakeeping in regular and random waves. Throughout the course, examples and homework problems are drawn from real-world applications such as offshore wind turbines.

When Offered Fall.

Prerequisites/Corequisites Prerequisite: at least one of the following courses or their equivalents: MAE 3230, CEE 3310, or AEP 4340.

Comments Only offered Fall of every other year.

• Analyze the wave forces on an ocean system using linear potential flow theory.
• Examine the dynamic response of an ocean system to wave forces using linear potential flow theory.
• Evaluate the hydrodynamic stability of a body subject to ocean waves.
• Assess various control schemes for wave energy converters.

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