OTC-Smoc

The long distance goal of OTC-SMOC is the development of free hanging high voltage underwater power cables that are able to autonomously monitor their structural integrity. This allows for the early detection of motion induced cable failures due to mechanical fatigue and thus for a significant reduction in downtime and repair costs. For this purpose, in a first phase, simulation tools for the transient simulation of cable motions under arbitrary hydrological conditions are created. Additionally, a test rig for the experimental investigation of the cables' fatigue behaviour is developed in order to investigate relevant damage mechanisms. Based on these investigations, in a final phase, a structural health monitoring system will be developed that is able to provide a live observation of structural integrity values.