Abstract:
This report presents a numerical framework for analyzing the statics and dynamics of cable strctures commonly
encountered in oceanographic engineering practice. The numerical program, WHOI Cable, features a nonlinear solver that
includes the effects of geometric and material nonlinearties, bending stiffness for seamless modeling of slack cables, and a
model for the interaction of cable segments with the seafoor. The program solves both surface and subsurface single-point
mooring problems, systems with both ends anchored on the bottom, and towing and drifter problems. Forcing includes
waves, current, ship speed, and pay-out of cable. The programs that make-up WHOI Cable run under Unix, DOS, and
Windows. There is a familiar Windows-style interface available for Windows 95 and Windows NT platforms. In the report,
the mathematical and numerical framework for WHOI Cable is described, followed by detailed instructions for formulating
problem input files and running the codes. Examples are included in an appendix to highlight the range of problems that
WHOI Cable can solve.
