Numerical investigation on the influence of a box-type large floating structure on the surrounding flow field

Large floating structures possess numerous advantages, making them a key area of research in ocean engineering. Most existing studies focus on the hydrodynamic characteristics and connection mechanics of large floating structures under oceanic dynamic loads, while relatively few have examined the influence on surrounding flow fields. This study employs a computational fluid dynamics numerical model validated by comparison with experimental data of floating breakwaters. Through numerical simulations, the vortex and flow fields around a box-type large floating structure are investigated under wave-only, co-directional wave–current, and counter-directional wave–current conditions. Analysis of the vortex field characteristics reveals that vortices are predominantly distributed near the bottom corners of the box-type structure. Under co-directional wave–current conditions, the vortex size, intensity, and distribution range significantly exceed those observed under wave-only and counter-directional conditions. Additionally, this study explores variations in the surrounding flow field by introducing the flow velocity change area ratio (S/A) to quantify vertical distribution changes and examining its dependence on wave period and flow velocity. This comprehensive study provides scientific insights for the influence of box-type floating structure on the environment.