Performance-Based Design Optimization of a Transition Piece for Bucket Foundations for Offshore Wind Turbines

摘要

This paper deals with optimization of the shape of the transition piece connectingrnturbine column with a suction bucket used as a monopod foundation for an offshorernwind turbine. The structural behaviour of a transition piece made of compactrnreinforced composite (CRC) is analysed. Several geometries are compared to findrnthe one providing better force distribution, preventing stress concentration andrnbuckling, reducing the amount of material used as well as potentially minimizingrnscour. Local optimization of the cross section is performed with the aim ofrnminimizing the material consumption (steel, as well as CRC). A non-linear finiteelementrnmodel is developed for analysis of the structure.