Design Optimization of Floating Offshore Wind Turbine Substructure Using Frequency Domain Modelling and Genetic Algorithm

Abstract

Floating offshore wind turbines are becoming increasingly popular as a promising technology for producing cleaner energy. However, in order to be competitive with fixed offshore wind projects or even onshore wind projects, the costs associated with floating offshore wind turbines must be significantly reduced. To tackle this challenge, this paper presents a comprehensive framework for optimizing the design of floating offshore wind turbine substructures and their components. The innovative open-source frequency-domain dynamic model RAFT is used to take into account the aerodynamic, hydrodynamic and mooring forces that impact the stability and dynamics of the floating system. The numerical model is coupled with an efficient genetic algorithm to minimize the structural mass of the floating platform while maintaining its stability and dynamic performance. The geometrical parametrization of the substructure, the implementation of the numerical model, and the overall optimization process are all thoroughly detailed in this paper, along with preliminary results that demonstrate the potential cost reductions that can be achieved through this framework.