Numerical modeling and design of inflatable structures—application to open-ocean-aquaculture cages

Numerical simulation and design of an inflatable open-ocean-aquaculture cage is presented using nonlinear finite element analysis of membrane structures. Numerical instability caused by the tension-only membrane has been removed by adding an artificial shell with small stiffness. The material properties of a fabric material are obtained from tensile tests in both hoop and longitudinal directions, assuming the material is anisotropic. Wrinkling, defined as an onset of compressive stress, is monitored as design criteria. The finite element model is validated using a modified beam theory for the inflatable structure by comparing the maximum deflection and stress. Good agreement is observed between the numerical and theoretical results. A full-scale cage model is created using membrane, shell, and string elements to test the stiffness and integrity of the system. The feasibility study indicates that the inflated structure has sufficient stiffness to be used as the structural support within a fish cage. Based on the parameter study, several designs are suggested.