Three-Dimensional Dynamical Behaviour of a Flexible Towed Cable

Abstract

SummaryThe three-dimensional motion of a body towed by a flexible cable is studied. An approximate solution is developed for the non-linear equations of motion of the system to determine cable shapes. This solution is then used to compute natural frequencies and damping rates for longitudinal and lateral motions of the system. Conditions necessary for the uncoupling of the lateral and longitudinal motions are defined.