Author(s): T. Sahoo; T. L. Yip; Allen T. Chwang
Linked Author(s): Allen T. Chwang
Keywords: Membrane; Water waves; Breakwater; Floating barrier
Abstract: The interaction between waves and a semi-infinite horizontal membrane is analyzed by means of the linearized wave theory in a fluid domain of constant depth. Combining the linearized kinematic and dynamic surface conditions with the dynamic pressure on the membrane, a third-order differential equation is derived to describe the membrane-covered surface. To deal with the membrane-covered surface condition and the edge condition, a generalized inner product is developed. By the eigenfunction expansions method and the orthogonality property of the eigenfunctions in the membrane-covered region, the complete solution is obtained. Especially, the influence of different edge conditions on the wave-induced behaviours of membrane are investigated and compared. The edge conditions considered in the present study involve (i) a fixed edge, (ii) a free edge, and (iii) a spring-supported edge. Using Green's integral theorem, a relationship between the reflection and transmission coefficients is established. The free edge condition leads to the maximum membrane deflection while the fixed edge enhances the wave reflection.
Year: 2001