Optimising float design and performance
The buoys that float the mussel lines used by Sanford must be able to withstand a variety of different conditions, both in terms of loadings, ease of handling, and environment.
This challenge will seek to quantify the mechanical loadings on these buoys under different conditions, and inform ways in which their design can be optimised to provide the best overall performance.
Some of the factors to be considered include
- Stress-Strain relationships
- Hydrodynamic Loadings
- Transport and storage safety
- Cost and production
- Biofouling
- Safety
- Longevity and robustness