Patent ID: 7540200
Filing Date: 2009-06-02
Classification: G01M

Abstract:
1. A vortex induced vibration motion testing apparatus comprising a test rig suitable for holding a horizontal test body in a water body, wherein said testing apparatus comprises: an actuator suitable for producing a force upon the test body, said actuator using a feedback control mechanism, wherein a damping model is used in said feedback control mechanism; a turbulence generator located in the water body up current from the test body suitable for generating a turbulent flow field with uniform turbulence intensity across the water body-test body interface, the turbulent flow field including dominate vortical structures, the axis of the vortical structures about parallel to the longitudinal axis of the test body; and a test body adjuster suitable for adjusting the test body relative to the water current in four or more increments, thereby enabling multiple headings of the test body to be tested against the current of the water body.