Simulation of Floaters in Action: 1 - Theory : Release: SOFIA v1.0

This report is the first in a series of three, which altogether documents:

1. theory
2. numerical implementation
3. application

for Simulation of Floaters in Action (SOFIA), which is a structural analysis tool for slender offshore structures, such as monopiles, jacket structures and floating space frame structures. The current report represents the theoretical basis, while the numerical implementation and application of SOFIA are documented in two individual reports.

In relation to other structural analysis tools, the present tool allows for geometrical nonlinearities, which may be exhibited by mooring lines and floating structures. Therefore, SOFIA provides an alternative to traditional analysis tools, which may only be able to handle bottom founded structures, exhibiting linear behavior.

The work has been conducted in the Department of Civil Engineering, Aalborg University, and as further developments are in progress, the reports are updated continuously.