• Journal of Ocean Engineering and Technology
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• v.13 no.4 s.35
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• pp.19-27
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• 1999

To design a very large floating structure, such as a floating airport, we have to estimate the hydroelastic responses of a very large floating structure (VLFS) exactly. We developed the numerical method for estimating the hydroelastic responses of the VLFS. The developed numerical approach is based on a combination of the three-dimensional source distribution method, the wave interaction theory and the finite element method for structurally treating the space frame elements. The Numerical results of the hydroelastic responses and steady drift forces of a somisubmersible type offshore structure, which is supported by the 33(3 by 11) floating bodies, with various bending rigidities are illustrated.