Cross-validation methods for wave tank measurements

Dynamic response of offshore structures and radiation diffraction problems are generally investigated through combined experimental and numerical studies. Assuming that wave series are the input to the investigated system, experimental tests require a good knowledge of the actual wave propagation in the wave tank. Assessment of the IFREMER offshore wave tank is carried out through extensive calibration tests and cross validation with a non linear numerical model. The numerical model of the offshore wave tank is a third order boundary element, time implemented model. It takes the whole geometry of the tank into account. For a given wave time series, wedge wave generator displacement time series are synthesized and introduced as input to both the numerical and the physical wave makers. Waves measurement analysis is carried out using various harmonic, spectral and statistical methods. Kinematics is also cross-checked. Stationarity of irregular waves spectral parameters is investigated.