The main goal of this task is to validate the existing numerical codes for floating support structures by wave tank tests of different floater concepts and therefore support a faster time-to-market process of this technology. Currently various numerical codes and methods are available or are still under development in terms of floating wind turbines. Here the major developments concern advanced aerodynamics and hydrodynamics, but also non-linear behavior of mooring lines. In order to apply these methods in the industry, the task will focus first on finalizing all necessary innovations related to these topics by including the necessary experts in each sub-topic, by continuing the successful work of the UPWIND project and by including other relevant national projects. Afterwards the variety of modeling and simulation techniques will be validated. Here the major floating types (ballast-stabilized, mooring-stabilized and buoyancy-stabilized) will be built as a scaled-model and wave tank tests will be used to validate the methods itself, but also the methods connected to the floater-type-specific applications.
The code and method validation via intensive tests is of major importance in terms of reliable design methods addressed in the second part of the Task. This also involves a setup of testing procedures in order to transfer the scaled test results into full scale applications.
The task shall be concluded by a delivered report on validation of the numerical results with the wave tank test results. In addition to the finalization and validation of methods, the second focus area in this task will be on further innovations necessary to enable the time-to-market application of floating wind turbines. This includes identification of structure-type-specific design-driving load phenomena, and design of control strategies for floater stabilization.