REsponse of MArine STructures – RE:MAST

Offentlig prosjektsammendrag

The aquaculture industry in Norway is currently under pressure and forced to find new, faster and more precise planning and site evaluation tools. There is a great need for software tools that can handle the response and load calculations in a demanding offshore environment, while approaching the problem with a reliable methodology. The software implementation must be able to handle complex large-scale structures down to detail scales, both for rigid and flexible components, addressing simultaneous solving and new calculation schemes for panel-type object, e.g. lice skirts and semi-enclosed fish cages (where the nets are changed to a solid plastic tarp/membranes). In order to accomplish this, we propose to create a modular and flexible software framework RE:MAST for planning, response and fast calculations. The work will be composed of both development of new methodologies for approximate load levels and including novel numerical methods utilizing sensor/web interfaces for enhanced efficiency. By making this development it will be possible to rapidly cover a larger parameter space when identifying the most relevant load cases. The method will include incorporation of novel techniques related to machine learning and making use of advanced statistics. We will also increase the monitoring capability and the operational aspect by connecting the framework to sensors/web for both operational and prognostic feedback. The computational core will, furthermore, be connected to automated processes for a digital/GIS-handling of both inputs and results. In the end, we aim to accomplish a tool for design and scrutiny of both offshore and coastal fishfarms where the facilities/structures will be more secure and the design more precise. Ultimately, this will contribute to save lives and money, while minimizing damages and losses in terms of escaped fish or through increased fish health.