A state-of-the-art review on the numerical simulation of dynamics of floating offshore wind turbines: Coupling, fidelity, validation, and model selection

Abstract Numerical analysis of floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) combines aerodynamic, hydrodynamic, structural, mooring, and control models. Coupling topology is often used as a proxy for model fidelity, although topology describes information exchange whereas fidelity describes the physical processes represented within each subsystem. This state-of-the-art review treats these attributes separately. Coupling is classified as uncoupled, partially coupled, or fully coupled, while subsystem fidelity is assessed through governing assumptions, target responses, validation evidence, and computational cost. Quantitative comparisons from code-comparison projects, laboratory experiments, and high-fidelity studies relate model classes to loading conditions and design tasks. Engineering-level fully coupled tools remain suitable for broad design-load calculations when their component models are validated for the responses of interest. Higher-fidelity methods are most useful for targeted analyses in which nonlinear wave loading, viscous effects, large platform motion, structural flexibility, wake interaction, or local flow and stress govern the response. The review proposes a task-oriented workflow that identifies required feedback pathways and physical mechanisms, checks validation coverage, and increases complexity only when lower-cost models omit a controlling process. The resulting guidance covers conceptual design, integrated load assessment, extreme conditions, and floating-wind-farm wake analysis.