Ship-structure collisions: Development of a numerical model for direct impact simulations

Numerical experiments were conducted to estimate the loads generated during head-on collisions of moving ships with fixed marine structures. A finite element model for the CPF (Canadian Patrol Frigate) was developed. Then, the ship model was tested in a numerical towing tank, where simulations of CPF impacts with a rigid structure were performed. These "numerical experiments" are, entirely, based on the use of "explicit finite element method", employing several commercial and in-house software packages. The research shows a step-by-step procedure for numerical modeling of ship-structure impacts. The contact theory (contact between the ship and the structure during impact) and the coupling theory (fluid-structure interactions) are considered in the model. Typical results of impact loads (both structural and hydrodynamic impact loads) are presented and discussed. Conclusions and recommendations are presented.