Prediction of manoeuvring behaviour of a research vessel (RV) discovery using simulation program

Abstract

Good manoeuvnng ability of a vessel is important and critical to ensure successful operations. In order to improve the vessel's design, knowledge on an early prediction method is crucial for a ship designer. There are many test methods available for manoeuvring prediction such as free running model test and captive model tests. However these methods are expensive and time consuming. As an alternative, the approach proposed in this thesis incorporates a numerical simulation method with parameters derived from a database. This paper presents the manoeuvring prediction of a Research Vessel (RV) Discovery which includes the development of time domain simulation program using Matlab Simulink software. Three degrees of freedom were considered that are surge, sway, and yaw and which later apply the Newtonian laws, the equations of motion were framed. Further, forces on hull, forces and moments induced by propeller and rudder were also taken into consideration. Later, the simulation results obtained are compared with full-scale sea trial results. Based on the current findings, it can be concluded that the derived formulation can be used as a reliable and economic tool at the early design of such vessel.