Breaking Focused Waves Generated Using the Transient Wave Packet Method and the Breaking Impact Forces on a Vertical Cylinder

Abstract

The presence of vital offshore infrastructure in deeper waters makes it essential to be able to evaluate the properties of steepness-induced breaking waves. An extreme wave event in deep water can be modelled with a transient wave packet approach where shorter waves follow longer waves resulting in a steep, large extreme wave (focused wave) at a point of concentration. Wave breaking occurs when the steepness of the large wave crest front satisfies the breaking criteria. Generation of such extreme waves with phase-focussing waves through a spectrum such as the JONSWAP spectrum can be challenging. This paper shows the interaction of a focussed extreme wave generated using the transient wave packets method with a vertical cylinder under different impact scenarios.