Research

Our research aims to integrate offshore wind system modeling, air–sea multiphase dynamics, and regional wind planning through coupled parameterizations and cross-scale interactions.

Air-Sea Interactions

At the core of our research is the micro-physics of the air–sea interface. Using large-scale Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS), we generate comprehensive ground-truth datasets that resolve turbulent momentum and heat exchange, as well as multiphase processes such as wave breaking, sea spray, and bubble entrainment. These datasets provide the foundation for developing and validating physics-based parameterizations, novel turbulence closures, and data-driven approaches including machine learning.

Offshore Wind Systems

Our work in this area focuses on creating high-fidelity aero–hydro coupled models of offshore wind farms. We use large-eddy simulation (LES) with a volume-of-fluid (VOF) method to capture the complex, unsteady interactions between the turbulent atmosphere, dynamic ocean waves, and turbine structures. This approach enables accurate prediction of turbine performance, wake effects, and structural loads, providing crucial data for improving the design and operational efficiency of offshore wind energy systems.

Regional Wind Planning

Looking ahead, our goal is to connect detailed simulations of offshore wind farms with the regional-scale models used to assess wind resources and environmental impacts. Building on the high-resolution LES and DNS data generated in our other research areas, we aim to develop new “farm drag” and “ocean drag” models that can be incorporated into mesoscale weather models such as WRF. This integration will enable more accurate predictions of how large wind farm clusters affect regional energy supply, an important step for Taiwan’s renewable energy planning.

These research directions form a multiscale pipeline, starting from the micro-physics of the air–sea interface, moving through high-fidelity coupled models of offshore wind farms, and extending to regional wind-resource assessment. This integrated approach advances the fundamental science of multiphase flows and turbulence while providing practical tools for offshore renewable energy. Applications include global offshore wind development as well as region-specific challenges such as those in the Taiwan Strait.