Abstract
This thesis presents an approach for the structural design of vertical-axis tidal turbine
arrays, including both the turbine blades and the supporting superstructure. Design load
cases and performance goals are established in a Load and Resistance Factor Design (LRFD)
framework. A simplified frame model is derived to efficiently perform a parametric study
on blade structural performance using loads derived from hydrodynamic simulations. This
model is compared to a higher resolution finite element model of the blade to identify ways
in which the simplified model may underestimate stresses and deflections. A frame model
is developed for the superstructure using loads derived from experimental hydrodynamic
data. The design approach and component models are implemented in a parametric design
algorithm which determines the required size of each structural component for a given set of
flow, control, and geometric parameters. The parametric design algorithm is applied for a
range of turbine conditions representative of potential sites and control strategies. Trends in
the structural requirements, controlling limit states, and limits of feasibility are discussed.