A comparative analysis of hybrid systems under real sea states

Despite the increasing research attention on wind–wave hybrid systems, most existing studies remain restricted to a narrow range of configurations, typically focusing on individual platforms or specific wave energy converter (WEC) layouts. This limitation has hindered the generalizability of findings and obscured dynamic behaviors that may only be revealed through comparative evaluations across multiple hybrid systems. To bridge this gap, this study is based on a flexible and fully coupled simulation framework that leverages the mathematical models of each subsystem and enables parameterized modeling, full-process simulation, and customizable module configurations with high computational efficiency. Twelve systems are examined, encompassing three floating offshore wind turbines (FOWTs) and nine wind–wave hybrid systems. The FOWTs include the DeepCwind and windFloat platforms, each supporting a single wind turbine, as well as the W2Power platform featuring a dual-turbine configuration. The coupling modes between the oscillating buoy (OB) WECs and the wind platforms include relative sliding along a connecting rod and relative rotation around a hinge joint. Through a combination of multi-parameter investigations and comparative analyses of three standalone FOWTs and nine hybrid systems, both specific findings and generalized insights are derived. The multi-parameter analysis identifies the influence of WEC radius, equivalent length of the WEC lever arm, WEC coupling type, power take-off damping, and layout on system stability and wave energy capture performance—constituting the specific findings. Meanwhile, the comparative study reveals broader insights, including hydro–aero coupling characteristics, platform design implications, dual-turbine effect, layout adaptability, and WEC integration impact. This computational and research framework not only offers a more holistic understanding of triangular semi-submersible platforms integrated with OB WECs, but also ensures that the identified characteristics are both reproducible and generalizable. Moreover, the comparative insights provide perspectives for future research in wind-wave hybrid systems.