The initial program objective is to develop the modeling and analytical tools needed to accurately predict the motions and stresses of a very large floating structure (VLFS). The structure will be assembled from a number (up to 100) of large stable modules and, in concept, might have a greatest dimension as large as 5000 feet (an airfield). The analysis will include the effects of intra- and inter- module hydroelasticity. The second program objective will be to apply this analysis methodology to determine if such large floating structures are technically feasible---i.e., capable of relatively small motions and forces in multi- year storms. The interactions of motions and associated stresses will be iteratively studied in a search for optimum" module shapes. Initial choices of buoyancy modes and module shapes will be determined on the bases of expected civilian uses and user requirements. Shapes which survive the analytical tests will be examined to determine if they are compatible with the capabilities and limitations of U.S. shipyards and graving docks. During the two program summers, workshops will be held in Hawaii to bring together the VLFS community of probable users, motion- and stress analysts and potential builders. Workshop Proceedings will be published.
