This paper presents a design space exploration (DSE) for the development of an innovative special-purpose installation vessel for tension leg platform (TLP) floating offshore wind turbines. The concept, named “Windchanger,” features an installation deck integrated with the stern design to facilitate turbine lowering and recovery. The DSE model conducts a tradeoff analysis using a parametric model of the hull and installation deck, evaluating both technical feasibility and cost-effectiveness. The model evaluates various scenarios across two demonstration operational areas: the North Sea and the U.S. East Coast. Results evaluated the principle design limitation across various TLP designs, ship concepts, installation design concepts, and operational scenarios. Findings indicate that the transport capacity measured in the number of TLPs, from 1 to 5, has a significant influence on design considerations and economic effectiveness. The overall results show that the Windchanger concept has the potential to be a competitive installation solution.
Flierman et al. (Tue,) studied this question.