Prediction of Global Loads and Structural Response Analysis on a Multi-Purpose Semi-Submersible

This paper presents analysis procedures of a prototype semi-submersible which consists of rectangular pontoons and square columns. The proposed semi-submersible is based on standard cubic boxes constructed by stiffened flat panel line assembly techniques. The prediction of global loads and responses is of great importance to engineers for assessing the safety of marine structures. In this paper analysis methods to determine the global structural loads and to assess the viability of the multi-purpose semi-submersible are described. Static loads in the still water condition and wave induced dynamic loads of cylindrical members in different design conditions were determined to investigate the viability of the proposed semi-submersible. Further the assessment of the safety against failure due to excessive maximum loads was accomplished in ultimate limit states.