Response of a Simple Tension Leg Platform Model to Wave Forces Calculated at Displaced Position

Abstract

A simple single-degree-of-freedom model of a tension leg platform is used to assess the reliability of the common practice of calculating wave-induced forces at the undisplaced position of offshore structures. This assessment is conducted in conjunction with the Morison equation based modeling of the wave-induced forces on slender structural members. It is shown by numerically integrating the equation of motion that the calculation of wave forces on the displaced position of the structure introduces a steady offset component in the structural response. This is valid for either deterministically or stochastically described wave fields. Several parameter studies are conducted. Furthermore, reliable approximate analytical deterministic and stochastic solution techniques are developed which conform to and, in fact, predict the conclusions drawn from the results of the numerical studies.