Numerical analysis of the dynamic response of an integrated structure of the floating wind turbine and the fish cage to regular waves

In recent years, offshore wind power and aquaculture industry have developed rapidly and expanded. Considering the sea-use conflict between offshore wind power and aquaculture as well as the development needs, a new designed structure that integrated the floating wind turbine and the fish cage is proposed in this study. This new structure can effectively use the ocean space and achieve a win-win situation between the modern marine aquaculture industry and the renewable energy industry, which is of great significance to both social, economic development and environmental protection. The characteristic of the windenergie-aquaculture integrated structure in this study is that the tower of the wind turbine is connected to the top center of the frame structure of a hexagonal semi-submersible fish cage, and the side columns are as ballast compartments for adjusting the draft and provide sufficient buoyancy. The mooring system is tensioned which is suitable for the deep sea which can mitigate the first order heave, surge and pitch motions. A finite element numerical model is established based on the Morison equation and the mesh grouping method. The dynamic response of the overall structure under wave action is studied. This study has significant reference for ensuring the safe operation of the whole windenergie-aquaculture integrated structure and the efficient utilization of marine space resources.