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

摘要

This paper describes the development of an innovative wind generation system for physical model test of offshore floating structures (e.g. floating offshore wind turbines). A CFD modeling is also carried out to verify the wind field in the wave basin. The experimental set-up is associated with the Ocean Engineering Wave Tank of Ecole Centrale de Nantes in order to reproduce offshore winds with respect to their mean speed vertical gradient, including dynamic aspects (frequency spectrum, gusts) above directional water waves. Developed within a collaborative framework between Centre Scientifique et Technique du Batiment (C.S.T.B) and E.C.N, the wind generation system is based on several centrifuge fans located behind the wavemaker. Flexible air ducts are carrying the airflow to the vicinity of floating models. The experimental facilities engaged are unique in the field of academic research in France.