Analytical study on dynamic response of submerged floating tunnels due to wave force

Although actual submerged floating tunnels have not yet been constructed, they are seen as one of the most promising structures for strait crossings. In order to make the tunnel a reality, it is necessary to analyze the dynamic response of the whole structure with adequate models that cover a wide range of many parameters such as buoyancy, leg arrangement and flexibility of tunnel joint. The authors proposed a suitable model for a super-long submerged floating tunnel using the modified Morison’s equation. The response calculated by this method shows a close coincidence with those obtained by the diffraction theory. Super-long tunnels of 5 km in length were therefore analyzed, and the fundamental characteristics of their response due to waves were obtained.