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Design, Analysis, Operation, and Maintenance (DAOM) of Offshore Structures

A special issue of Applied Sciences (ISSN 2076-3417). This special issue belongs to the section "Marine Science and Engineering".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (20 November 2023) | Viewed by 21007

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Centre for Marine Technology and Ocean Engineering (CENTEC), Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisbon, Portugal
Interests: marine structure; ocean platform; subsea pipe; corrosion; collision and grounding; ultimate strength; welding; photogrammetry
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
1. Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) Europe, Dublin 94304, Ireland
2. Delft Center for Systems and Control, Delft University of Technology, 2628 Delft, The Netherlands
Interests: offshore wind; turbine control; health monitoring; reliability
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

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Guest Editor
School of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong 518107, China
Interests: prognostic and health management; intelligent fault prognostic

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

There has been a surging demand for different types of offshore structures due to their low environmental impact and their irreplaceable role in the development of offshore resources. Offshore structures, including offshore oil platforms and offshore wind facilities, have been rapidly developed in recent years as a consequence of the vigorous promotion of new technologies and ever-increasing investment. The design, analysis, operation, and maintenance (DAOM) of offshore structures are decisive aspects for the overall performance of such installations, and can contribute to reduced costs. In addition, offshore structures must also be considered in relation to design concepts, analysis methodologies, and operation and maintenance tools. Moreover, advances in material science and artificial intelligence techniques, as well as the fast-accumulating knowledge and data of multiple types of offshore structures, make it possible to develop and then apply intelligent DAOM tools in this sector.

This Special Issue aims to report the state-of-the-art development and application of the design, analysis, operation, and maintenance (DAOM) of offshore structures, including offshore oil platforms, offshore wind facilities, and ships. Given the complexities of such problems, we hope that the new findings of this Special Issue will increase the performance of such facilities in various aspects, such as design, modeling, analysis, evaluation, optimization, and cost-saving. Original research and review articles related to the following topics are welcomed; however, please note that this list is by no means exhaustive:

  • New design concepts of offshore structures and equipment;
  • Modeling and analyzing the performance, failure, and health state of offshore structures;
  • Evaluation, optimization, and cost-saving issues of offshore structures;
  • Sensing and monitoring advancement towards offshore structures;
  • Computation and simulation tools of offshore structures;
  • Vibration and its preventions;
  • The maintenance of offshore structures;
  • Life extension assessments;
  • Inspection and fatigue analysis;
  • The digitalization of offshore structures;
  • Control and health monitoring towards offshore structures.

Dr. Bai-Qiao Chen
Dr. He Li
Dr. Yichao Liu
Dr. Chenggeng Huang
Guest Editors

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Published Papers (10 papers)

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Research

26 pages, 9056 KiB  
Article
Numerical Study on Hydrodynamic Performance of a New Semi-Submersible Aquaculture Platform
by Wei-Wei Ding, Jia-Qiang Jiang, Wan-Zhen Yue, Yan-Zhen Li, Wen-Sheng Wang, Song-Wei Sheng and Min Chen
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(23), 12652; https://doi.org/10.3390/app132312652 - 24 Nov 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1538
Abstract
To address the limitations of traditional aquaculture cages, such as poor performance in offshore environments, challenges in energy supply, and the inability to integrate modern farming facilities, a new semi-submersible aquaculture platform has been developed and put into operation. The hydrodynamic performance of [...] Read more.
To address the limitations of traditional aquaculture cages, such as poor performance in offshore environments, challenges in energy supply, and the inability to integrate modern farming facilities, a new semi-submersible aquaculture platform has been developed and put into operation. The hydrodynamic performance of the platform is analyzed using a fully coupled numerical model. The numerical model incorporates the main structure of the platform, the net system, and the mooring system, and is based on the linear potential flow theory and the Morison equation. The natural period of the platform is found to be far away from the common wave period. The mooring system for the platform in a specific sea area is proven to be safe. The net system significantly affects the hydrodynamic performance and alleviates the dynamic response of the platform. This study provides valuable insights for researchers and engineers in the design and optimization of this type of semi-submersible aquaculture platform in the future. Full article
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26 pages, 22649 KiB  
Article
Investigation on Numerical Simulation of VIV of Deep-Sea Flexible Risers
by Liyuan Jia, Song Sang, Xiao Shi and Fukui Shen
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(14), 8096; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13148096 - 11 Jul 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1423
Abstract
The vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of flexible risers is a complex fluid–structure interaction (FSI) phenomenon. In this study, we conducted a numerical simulation method based on the slicing method to study the vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of deep-sea flexible risers with different slenderness ratios and [...] Read more.
The vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of flexible risers is a complex fluid–structure interaction (FSI) phenomenon. In this study, we conducted a numerical simulation method based on the slicing method to study the vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of deep-sea flexible risers with different slenderness ratios and uniform flow velocities. The method combines the finite element model of the riser structure with the two-dimensional flow field slices solved by the Fluent solver. The fluid–structure interaction was realized by a self-compiled UDF program and the overset mesh technique. The numerical results were validated by comparing them with experimental data. The VIV characteristics of the riser, such as the vibration track, vibration mode, vibration frequency and wake vortex shedding mode, were analyzed. The article reveals the nonlinear dynamic features of flexible riser vibration, such as multi-frequency vibration, wide-frequency vibration and multi-modal vibration. The article also provides insights into the fluid–structure interaction mechanism of VIV of deep-sea flexible risers. Full article
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13 pages, 9032 KiB  
Article
Dual-Functional Energy Harvesting and Low-Frequency Vibration Attenuation: Electromagnetic Resonant Shunt Series Quasi-Zero-Stiffness Isolators
by Qingchao Yang, Zhaozhao Ma, Ruiping Zhou, Heow Pueh Lee and Kai Chai
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(12), 7302; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13127302 - 19 Jun 2023
Viewed by 1684
Abstract
In recent times, there has been a significant focus on electromagnetic resonant shunt damping (ERSD) and quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolators (QZS VI) as prominent solutions for vibration mitigation or energy harvesting. In this paper, an innovative retrofittable model is proposed for dual-functional energy harvesting [...] Read more.
In recent times, there has been a significant focus on electromagnetic resonant shunt damping (ERSD) and quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolators (QZS VI) as prominent solutions for vibration mitigation or energy harvesting. In this paper, an innovative retrofittable model is proposed for dual-functional energy harvesting and low-frequency vibration attenuation by combining the ERSD and two-stage quasi-zero-stiffness vibration isolator (TQZS VI). The viscous dissipative element between the TQZS VI upper and lower layers is implemented using an electromagnetic shunt transducer that is connected in parallel with a resonant RLC (resistor–inductor–capacitor) circuit. Firstly, the mathematical model of the electromagnetic resonant shunt series quasi-zero-stiffness isolator (ERS-TQZS VI) is developed. Then, the magnitude-frequency response equations of the ERS-TQZS VI system are approximately solved using the harmonic balance method (HBM) in combination with the pseudo-arc-length method (PLM). The analytical approach is validated using numerical simulations. Moreover, the force transmissibility and output power of the ERS-TQZS VI are defined, and detailed parametric analysis for energy harvesting and low-frequency vibration attenuation is performed to assess the critical design parameters that result in optimal performance of the ERS-TQZS VI. The results demonstrate that the ERS-TQZS VI exhibits a significant reduction in resonance peaks of low-frequency vibration while simultaneously enabling effective vibration energy harvesting. Full article
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21 pages, 2976 KiB  
Article
Economic Feasibility of Retrofitting an Ageing Ship to Improve the Environmental Footprint
by Dimitar Yalamov, Petar Georgiev and Yordan Garbatov
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(2), 1199; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13021199 - 16 Jan 2023
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3082
Abstract
Natural gas is cheaper than fuel on an energy basis, making it an alternative ship fuel which leads to a reduced operating cost and clean gas environmental conditions. The current study analyses the retrofit of an ageing multi-purpose ship to use liquefied natural [...] Read more.
Natural gas is cheaper than fuel on an energy basis, making it an alternative ship fuel which leads to a reduced operating cost and clean gas environmental conditions. The current study analyses the retrofit of an ageing multi-purpose ship to use liquefied natural gas as a primary ship fuel in the context of a short-ship sea operation. The objective is to transform an existing commercial ageing ship propulsion system into a green energy propulsion one and to analyse the economic feasibility considering the high volatility and increased LNG price. Four scenarios were analysed based on the net present value representing Denying, Disinterested, Good and Acceptable financial cash outflow. It was concluded that in the present economic instability and price of LNG fuel and CO2 taxes, the ship owner needs to rely on the long-term contract of buying LNG fuel to implement measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and keep good benefits in shipping. Full article
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14 pages, 7913 KiB  
Article
Fatigue Life Analysis of the Submarine Rudder Stock Mechanism at Arctic Low Temperatures
by Siyu Chen, Wenyong Guo, Chenghao Cao, Jianing Huang, Jianxiang Zhang, Li Yu and Hantao Chen
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13(1), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/app13010127 - 22 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1991
Abstract
Under the action of Arctic low temperatures and long-term alternating loads, the fatigue life of the submarine rudder stock mechanism is severely tested. In this paper, the research method of the static strength analysis and fatigue life analysis of the submarine rudder stock [...] Read more.
Under the action of Arctic low temperatures and long-term alternating loads, the fatigue life of the submarine rudder stock mechanism is severely tested. In this paper, the research method of the static strength analysis and fatigue life analysis of the submarine rudder stock mechanism is proposed by combining multibody dynamics, the finite element method, and tests. Based on the three-dimensional model and the motion law of the rudder stock mechanism, a multibody dynamic model is established, and the time history loads of each node of the mechanism are obtained. According to the working temperature range of the submarine rudder stock mechanism in the Arctic, low-temperature tensile tests are carried out. Based on the experimental data, the finite element model is built, and static analysis is carried out. Using the S–N static fatigue design method, fatigue simulation analysis is performed by using nCode DesignLife. The analysis results show that the fatigue life of the submarine rudder stock mechanism decreases significantly when the temperature is reduced from 0 °C to −60 °C. This method can provide a reference for submarine design and life model establishment in the Arctic environment. Full article
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8 pages, 865 KiB  
Article
A Safety Assessment for Consumers of Water Using Logical Trees
by Barbara Tchórzewska-Cieślak, Katarzyna Pietrucha-Urbanik, Janusz Rak, Dorota Papciak, Petr Hlavínek and Krzysztof Chmielowski
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(21), 11276; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122111276 - 7 Nov 2022
Viewed by 1338
Abstract
The lack of biochemical stability in drinking water increases the secondary contamination risk in water supply systems and hence represents a sanitary threat to consumers. The work presented here assesses the likelihood of such risk. The assessment is based on data obtained from [...] Read more.
The lack of biochemical stability in drinking water increases the secondary contamination risk in water supply systems and hence represents a sanitary threat to consumers. The work presented here assesses the likelihood of such risk. The assessment is based on data obtained from one of the water treatment plants. The assessment of the bio-chemical instability risk combines both approaches: fault and event trees. Additional consideration was naturally given to the events that initiated the contamination at the outlet of the water treatment plant. It is concluded that if it is to protect the water-supply infrastructure representing a kind of critical infrastructure, a water-supply company needs to put more emphasis on the distribution of stable water in terms of its properties and composition, thus having no potentially corrosive properties. The assessment underlines the importance that water supply utilities should equally consider both the supplied water sanitary quality and the water supply service continuity. Full article
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21 pages, 3575 KiB  
Article
Resistance Coefficient Estimation for a Submarine’s Bare Hull Moving in Forward and Transverse Directions
by Hassan Saghi, Joško Parunov and Antonio Mikulić
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(21), 10953; https://doi.org/10.3390/app122110953 - 28 Oct 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1895
Abstract
Resistance of the bare hull of the tourist submarine with spherical heads, moving in forward and transverse directions is analyzed in OpenFOAM using Computational Fluid Dynamics. The resistance coefficients of the submarine are estimated for different length-to-diameter ratios and Reynolds numbers. The Artificial [...] Read more.
Resistance of the bare hull of the tourist submarine with spherical heads, moving in forward and transverse directions is analyzed in OpenFOAM using Computational Fluid Dynamics. The resistance coefficients of the submarine are estimated for different length-to-diameter ratios and Reynolds numbers. The Artificial Neural Network with the optimum number of neurons is then trained to predict the resistance coefficients. Two simplified Artificial Neural Network models and Nonlinear Least Squares Marquardt-Levenberg algorithm are employed to fit the results in the form of equations that may be used in the initial design of this type of submarines. The comparative analysis of different prediction models is performed and guidelines for their practical application are given. Full article
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19 pages, 4888 KiB  
Article
FPSO Hull Structures with Sandwich Plate System in Cargo Tanks
by João Pedro Silva, Bai-Qiao Chen and Paulo Mauricio Videiro
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(19), 9628; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12199628 - 25 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3094
Abstract
Nowadays, the floating production storage and offload system (FPSO) is one of the most common platform types for offshore oil production. The traditional arrangement of the stiffened panels creates obstacles for automated cleaning and inspections by remote devices. This paper summarizes the results [...] Read more.
Nowadays, the floating production storage and offload system (FPSO) is one of the most common platform types for offshore oil production. The traditional arrangement of the stiffened panels creates obstacles for automated cleaning and inspections by remote devices. This paper summarizes the results of an initial study for the design and construction of FPSO hulls with SPS in order to overcome this problem. The main goal is to have the walls and bottom of the cargo tanks free of stiffeners. This research is conducted by first designing the hull with a conventional structural arrangement using steel according to the ABS rules as a benchmark. Following that, the equivalent hull structure with sandwich plates is designed in accordance with the guidelines for SPS construction from DNV rules. Finally, this paper provides the results of a finite element analysis to compare the stresses and ultimate strengths of both types of structures. Briefly, the main results are that the SPS design provides a reduction of 2.8% of the total weight and a better overall structural performance by an increase of 26% for the ultimate strength of the hull. Full article
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18 pages, 1944 KiB  
Article
Alignment Control Reconfigurability Analysis and Autonomous Control Methods of Air Spring Vibration Isolation System for High Power Density Main Engine (HPDME-ASVIS)
by Wen-Jun Bu, Jian-Wei Cheng and Liang Shi
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(16), 8211; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12168211 - 17 Aug 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1413
Abstract
The alignment stability and controllability deteriorate considerably when the air spring vibration isolation system for the high power density main engine (HPDME-ASVIS) is in a special running state of high power and high output torque. The coupling characteristics among the alignment components are [...] Read more.
The alignment stability and controllability deteriorate considerably when the air spring vibration isolation system for the high power density main engine (HPDME-ASVIS) is in a special running state of high power and high output torque. The coupling characteristics among the alignment components are obtained by analyzing the mechanical characteristics of HPDME-ASVIS. A control response model is established, which can predict the alignment state and the vertical displacement of air springs after k times of inflation/deflation. By solving the linear programming problem, the alignment controllability judgment models are constructed for two conditions, which are under hard constraints and soft constraints, respectively. Furthermore, alignment reconfigurability is described and an autonomous control method is established. The experimental results confirm that high output torque will cause large and serious coupling of horizontal offset, self-rotation angle, and vertical deformation of air springs. Meanwhile, hey cannot reach the given control precision range. The traditional control method under hard constraints will result in a state of oscillation and may bring many reliability problems to HPDME-ASVIS. The alignment reconfigurability analysis can judge the alignment control influence degree based on different torque accurately. The autonomous control can use the control parameters autonomous adjustment and the spatial configuration to realize the alignment control reconfigurability for two different alignment control fault states. The stability of the alignment control system in HPDME-ASVIS can be improved observably, which is of great significance to the engineering application of the high power density main engine (HPDME) in the field of marine propulsion technology. Full article
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18 pages, 4775 KiB  
Article
Assessment of Escape Safety of Cruise Ships Based on Dislocation Accumulation and Social Force Models
by Jianing Li, Gaoshuai Wang, Yong Guo, Chao Liu, Yiming Huang and Gang Chen
Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(16), 7998; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12167998 - 10 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2032
Abstract
The escape safety of passengers is the primary design requirement of cruise ships. However, larger and more complex structural schemes make the existing escape safety assessment methods insufficient to accurately calculate the safety index of the passengers’ escape. Therefore, this paper proposes a [...] Read more.
The escape safety of passengers is the primary design requirement of cruise ships. However, larger and more complex structural schemes make the existing escape safety assessment methods insufficient to accurately calculate the safety index of the passengers’ escape. Therefore, this paper proposes a novel assessment method to infer the passengers’ escape safety index of large cruise ships. Firstly, on the basis of quantifying personnel attributes and moving speed, a confluence algorithm based on the dislocation accumulation model is proposed to correct the flow model of passenger escape. Subsequently, a passenger escape flow method based on the social force model is established. The proposed method is applied to the escape safety assessment of a 130,000-ton cruise ship. The validation of the results is conducted by a comparative analysis between the proposed method and the traditional method and the results of simulation tools. The comparison confirmed that the proposed method has merits in computing accurate results. Overall, the proposed method supports the safety design of cruise ships. Full article
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