Development of a novel multi-component coupled numerical model for aquaculture systems in OpenFOAM

The motion and deformation of an aquaculture system under wave and current conditions is a complex fluid–structure interactions problem. Existing models often lack the capability to accurately simulate these interactions across all components of an aquaculture system. To address this limitation, we have developed a novel multi-component numerical model that coupled high-fidelity flow simulations in OpenFOAM freeware, and structural dynamics in MoorDyn, and EndoBeams modules. Our integrated model employs an incompressible fluid solver with a Volume of Fluid (VOF) method to capture multiphase fluid dynamics, while a screen model and mass spring method account for the flexible nets deformation. MoorDyn is used for simulating mooring line dynamics, and EndoBeams solves structural deformation of components such as collars and frames. The Immersed Boundary Method (IBM) is used to capture the interaction between the fluid and the structural components. By updating the deformation and motion states and exchanging positions and forces in each time step, the model ensures effective coupling between different components. Extensive validation against published experimental data confirms that our model is a robust tool for simulating the interactions of aquaculture systems with fluid and between all components, providing valuable insights for their design and optimization.