3D BEM-FEM hybrid hydroelastic analysis of module linked large floating structures subjected to regular waves

This study is concerned with a three-dimensional BEM-FEM hybrid hydroelastic analysis of module linked large floating structures subjected to regular waves. Modules and connectors of the floating structures are discretized by finite elements using eight-node isoparametric elements. Mindlin's plate theory is used to take into account flexural as well as shear deformation of the structures. The fluid structure interface is discretized by boundary elements using eight-node quadratic elements. Equation of motion of the structures coupled with fluid is constructed by combining boundary and finite elements at the interface nodes. Numerical examples are presented to show the accuracy and efficiency of the present method by comparing with previous theoretical and experimental results for wet mode free vibration and regular wave response. The effect of connector flexibility on the response is also discussed.