Multi-body Analysis of Modular Floating Islands: Optimisation of Connector Stiffness

The work presented in this paper focuses on the optimisation of the connection stiffness of modular floating islands. The connection system is described by an equivalent system consisting of linear springs whose stiffness is the objective of optimisation. A rigid-body flexible-connector approach to the problem is assumed and therefore the deformations are concentrated on the connections. The aim is to find an optimal spring stiffness solution that is compliant with dynamic constraints of human comfort and that minimises the loads acting on the connections. Acceptable human comfort values of accelerations and displacements, required by structures for residential purposes, pose new and unique challenges for the design of modular floating islands (MFIs) and plays a significant role in the design feasibility. The system has been simulated both in regular and irregular waves.