Operational limitations, motions and loads

Assessment or the operational limitations of a vessel has been one of the main activities in our laboratories for many years. Testing of fixed and free running models in the towing tank and model basin can give valuable insight into complex physical phenomena. Model tests can include effects of autopilots, motion control systems, roll damping tanks, variable depth, waves, wind and current.

An important aspect of vessel operation in heavy seas is that of motions and loads. It is extremely important that motions and accelerations should not be so great that they distress passengers, or that cargo should shift or be damaged. We need to be able to predict that a new vessel will have a sufficiently high operability quotient to be capable of operating in the routes for which it was designed. MARINTEK has developed the Veres software package which can estimate motions, accelerations, operability and most other sea-keeping characteristics with a high degree of accuracy. In many cases, such calculations are performed at an early stage of the design process, while the model trials are carried out during a later phase. Such calculations are also used to supplement and complement the trials.

In many types of vessel such as bulk carriers and high-speed craft built of high-strength steel or aluminum, sea-loads are often the factor that determines dimensions, in terms of either extreme or fatigue loads. MARINTEK has built up a high degree of expertise in the field of model trials that employ segmented models to measure global and local loads, as both extreme loads and fatigue.

Safe and efficient operation

Safe and efficient operation require documentation and verification of operational and manoeuvring characteristics.

• Ship motions and accelerations in all sea states and headings
• Ship manoeuvring characteristics in calm water, shallow and restricted water and in waves
• Development of steering and motion control systems, rudders, roll and damping fins etc.
• Simulation models and techniques

Sea Loads and Structural Response

Optimisation of ship hull weight/payload requires expertise and methods for prediction of sealoads and structural response. This business area covers:

• Prediction and verification of sea loads, global and local and structural response
• Operational limitations and hull monitoring systems

Contact persons: Dariusz Fathi / Rong Zhao