Dynamic Response of Surface-Moored Vertical Barrier to Wave Action by Analog and Digital Simulation

Abstract

The two-dimensional dynamics of an oil containment barrier, which was designed to have very low tensile loads due to current and waves, were simulated with a theoretical model. The model was solved on both analog and digital computers, and a lab test program conducted to verify the model. For nonlinear problems such as this, for which “exact” solutions do not exist, the analog computer has many advantages, principally rapid parameter studies and convenient plotting output, plus giving the engineer a real time “feel” for the problem. The problem treated here was especially well-suited to analog simulation. Charts and graphs present maximum force and amplitude data, and experimental verification of the solution was obtained from wave tank studies.