Comparison of simplified model and FEM model in coupled analysis of floating wind turbine

This paper compares simplified and finite element method (FEM) models for tower and blade in dynamic coupled analysis of floating wind turbine. A SPAR type wind turbine with catenary mooring lines is considered in numerical analysis. Floating body equation is derived using boundary element method (BEM) and convolution. Equations for mooring line, tower and blade are formulated with theories of catenary, elastic beam and aerodynamic rotating beam, respectively and FEM is applied in the formulation. By combining the equations, coupled solutions are calculated. Tower or blade may be assumed rigid or lumped body for simplicity in modeling. By comparing floating body motions, mooring line tensions and tower stresses with the simple model and original FEM model, the effect of including or neglecting elastic, rotating and aerodynamic behavior of tower and blade is discussed.