Experimental Setup for Validating Simulated Local Structure Responses for High-speed Craft in Waves

Abstract: Using scantling codes such as DNV or ISO for designing high speed craft has been a routine for many constructors. However, the validity of these design methods are to be questioned, especially when dealing with modern material concepts and structural layouts, since they are based on data from ships designed in the 1960ies and 1970ies using semi-empirical methods containing substantial uncertainties and limitations. For direct assessment of loading conditions, modern methods such as CFD are appreciated. But they consume lots of time and resources in the design stage, which makes efficiency worse. A simulation approach making detailed assessment of loading conditions and structural behavior for high speed craft in waves has been developed at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, with parts of the method still in need of further validation. In the here presented project an experimental setup has been developed for detailed validation of simulated local structural responses for high-speed craft in waves. The experimental setup consists of a model structure instrumented with strain gauges and pressure sensors that is integrated into a high speed craft model. Experimental data has been generated through experiments in regular and irregular waves in the towing tank at University of Naples “Federico II”. The model structure and generated data are concluded to be feasible for the intended validation.