A novel design for an offshore wind farm vessel: application of the aerodynamically alleviated marine vehicle (AAMV)

D. James, M. Collu

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution book

Abstract

With the recent third round of site allocations for offshore wind farms in extended UK waters, new challenges for efficient operation and maintenance require new solutions to be provided for technician and equipment transfer out to 200 nm from shore. Based on the ongoing work at Cranfield University, a representative methodology for the design of an innovative Aerodynamically Alleviated Marine Vehicle (AAMV) is demonstrated. This process builds upon previous work including theoretical and experimental models, culminating with the summary of a preliminary design for a vessel of similar capability. Utilising aerodynamic efficiencies of wing-in-ground effect (WIG) craft, it is shown how a vessel can be equipped with lifting surfaces in order to alleviate the weight of the vehicle, leading to a lower effective displacement, drag and required power. The design spiral of conventional marine craft is modified to include the relevant considerations to equilibrate the aerodynamic forces and moments. Some areas of current and future work are discussed, with experimental results presented.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationRINA, Royal Institution of Naval Architects - Design and Operation of Wind Farm Support Vessels, Papers
PublisherRoyal Institution of Naval Architects
Pages99-110
Number of pages12
ISBN (Electronic)9781909024359
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jan 2015
EventInternational Conference on Design and Operation of Wind Farm Support Vessels 2015 - London, United Kingdom
Duration: 28 Jan 201529 Jan 2015

Conference

ConferenceInternational Conference on Design and Operation of Wind Farm Support Vessels 2015
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityLondon
Period28/01/1529/01/15

Keywords

  • aerodynamic drag
  • aerodynamics
  • air cushion vehicles
  • design
  • electric utilities
  • ground effect
  • marine engineering
  • naval vessels
  • wind power
  • offshore wind farms

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