Diffraction-radiation of multiple floating structures in directional waves

The dynamics of multiple floating structures have been studied using the fi nite element method. The emphasis is on the hydrodynamic behaviour of multi ple bodies under a multidirectional wave field. A two-dimensional numerical model has been adopted to evaluate hydrodynamic coefficients and forces in an oblique wave field. The responses in sway, heave and roll modes are rep orted. The linear filter technique is then used to extrapolate the response s under directional waves. The effect of mean wave direction and directiona l homogeneity on the hydrodynamic behaviour of the structure is studied. Ba sed on the present study, it is found that the two-dimensional model is app licable to investigate the wave-structure interaction problems of the type herein considered. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.