Deniz Gedikli
Ph.D., Ocean Engineering, University of Rhode Island (2017)
I’m a Professor and Director of Nonlinear Dynamics and Fluid-Structure Interactions Laboratory in the Department of Ocean & Resources Engineering at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. My research spans fluid–structure interactions and vortex-induced vibrations, wave energy conversion systems, ice–structure interactions in cold regions, and piezoelectric actuation for energy harvesting.
I employ advanced experimental and numerical modeling techniques alongside data-driven condition monitoring to develop control strategies and risk management frameworks for renewable ocean energy systems and Arctic navigation.
Research Interests & Experience
- Fluid–Structure Interaction & Vortex-Induced Vibrations
- Marine Renewable Energy Model Development (Wave, Current, Wind)
- Ice–Structure Interactions & Cold Regions Engineering
- Piezoelectric Actuation & Energy Harvesting
- Advanced Experimental & Numerical Modeling Techniques
- Data-Driven Condition Monitoring & Feature Extraction
- Arctic Navigation & Risk Management
Recent Research Highlights
View All Publications →Nonlinear Dynamics of Wave-Induced Overwash and Attenuation in Floating Flexible Plates — Ocean Engineering, 2025
Combines wave-flume experiments and LS-DYNA simulations to explore how flexible, ice-like plates interact with ocean waves. Reveals that overwash above a wave-steepness threshold dramatically shifts plate dynamics toward rigid-like behavior, alters mode shapes, and intensifies edge vortex formation. Findings improve predictive models for ice-covered seas and guide the design of offshore structures in Arctic and sub-Arctic environments.
Bio-Inspired Flexible Structures Improve Energy Capture and Reduce Wave Loads in Oscillating Water Columns — Ocean Engineering, 2025
Inspired by natural kelp, integrates flexible “stems” into oscillating water columns to broaden energy capture bandwidth and reduce structural stress. Laboratory experiments show up to 70% reduction in peak wave loads while retaining at least 80% of pneumatic power output. Stems increase wave-impact rise time, shift loads from impulsive to quasi-static, and enhance front-plate durability — a promising design approach for resilient marine energy systems.
Ice Loads on a Bottomless Cylinder Under Dynamic Wave Action — Marine Structures, 2025
Large-scale ice-tank experiments and advanced load-separation methods quantify ice and wave loads on a fixed, bottomless cylinder. Robust Principal Component Analysis is innovatively applied to distinguish random ice-impact loads from quasi-periodic wave forces. Results show peak ice loads in fragmented ice can be over three times higher than equivalent wave loads, with collision duration scaling with wave frequency — critical insights for safe, resilient offshore designs in ice-infested waters.
Courses Taught:
Contact
If you’re interested in collaborating or have any questions, please feel free to email me.