Numerical modeling of moored buoy systems

Numerical modeling techniques for a single-point moored oceanographic buoy system are described. These techniques are now in use to analyze the requirements for buoy/mooring systems. The differential equations of the line motion can be solved either with the method of characteristics or with a linearized perturbation theory. Buoy dynamics, described as rigid body motion, can be modeled with the aid of experimental information. The results of numerical modeling are compared with actual measurements of buoy motion and line tension from deepwater mooring of General Dynamics thick-discus shaped buoys. The results indicate that the method of characteristics provides a good simulation of buoy/mooring systems with respect to buoy response and line tension.