The Numerical Modeling of Ship Motions and Capsizing in Severe Seas

Abstract

A numerical model has been developed to determine the large-amplitude motions of a steered vessel subjected to severe wave conditions, including those that may lead to capsizing. The model was used to identify different modes of capsizing, and to study relevant mechanisms and conditions. In this paper emphasis is placed on the theoretical aspects. The nonlinear model combines both potential and viscous flow effects, where integrations are carried out in the time domain over the instantaneous free surface; first-order memory effects are taken into account, and the free surface can be irregular, Some new results are presented concerning statistical properties relevant to the simulation of random following or quartering seas.