Innovative Design of a Wind Generation System for Marine Structures Model Testing

摘要

This paper describes the development of an innovative wind generationsystem for physical model test of offshore floating structures (e.g.floating offshore wind turbines). A CFD modeling is also carried out toverify the wind field in the wave basin. The experimental set-up isassociated with the Ocean Engineering Wave Tank of Ecole Centralede Nantes in order to reproduce offshore winds with respect to theirmean speed vertical gradient, including dynamic aspects (frequencyspectrum, gusts) above directional water waves. Developed within acollaborative framework between Centre Scientifique et Technique duBatiment (C.S.T.B) and E.C.N, the wind generation system is based onseveral centrifuge fans located behind the wavemaker. Flexible airducts are carrying the airflow to the vicinity of floating models. Theexperimental facilities engaged are unique in the field of academicresearch in France.