On the use of a new mathematical formulation for loads- and motion analysis of a mooring line

Abstract

This master thesis investigates the use of a new mathematical model for calculating loads and dynamic motion of a mooring line. Current industry standard mooring analysis tools uses a lumped parameter modelling approach. The new model utilizes an advanced rod model, which in nature is a continuous model able to capture nonlinear behaviour. If this new model succeeds it has the potential to give a better understanding of the loads and dynamics of a mooring line, and can potentially aid in cost-reduction for future floating offshore wind turbine farms. The thesis compares the results from the new model versus a lumped parameter mooring model for a limited number of load cases. This thesis has lead to improvements for the new model, such as introducing a barrier function for seafloor interaction and investigated the FEM discretization form, which has improved the new models capability to be used for mooring line analysis tool.