Wave Forces on Fixed Offshore Structures in Short‐Crested Seas

Abstract

Wave forces on fixed offshore structures due to short‐crested seas are investigated using the directional spectra and an alternative model accounting for spatial correlation of water particle motions in terms of coherence functions. The theoretical formulation of the latter approach is presented. The resultant wave forces acting on structural elements and on segments of structures are evaluated using both techniques. The characteristics of the wave forces are investigated and the advantages and limitations of both techniques are assessed.