Numerical Simulations of Cable/seabed Interaction

This paper contributes a method to model the interactions of lowtension cables with the seabed. The cable is modeled as an elastica, and can support tension, torsion and two-axis bending. It is subjected to hydrodynamic forces as well as self-weight, buoyancy, and seabed contact. The seabed is modeled as an elastic foundation with linear damping and prescribed topology. A numerical algorithm is briefly described and then used to simulate cable laying. Several examples are studied including a cable towed in deep water, dropped on an uneven seabed, and finally, towed across an uneven seabed.