Hybrid computer simulation of maneuvering during underway replenishment in calm and regular seas

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Alvestad, R. | Brown, S.H.

Affiliations: Automation and Control Division, Naval Ship Research and Development Center, Annapolis Laboratory, Annapolis, Maryland, U.S.A.

Abstract: This paper describes the second phase of a hybrid computer simulation of two ships maneuvering during underway replenishment operations. Two identical Mariner class merchant ships are used in this study. However, the simulation program is easily adapted to any class of surface ship. The ships’ dynamics are simulated on an EAI 680 analog computer, while the nonlinear interaction forces are generated on a PDP 15 (DEC) digital computer. The first phase of the project considered only the interaction effects on the leading ship due to the close proximity of the tracking ship. This second phase considers the interaction effects on both the leading and tracking ships in calm water and in two different regular seas. Computer runs are made to study the control variables necessary for manual control of the leading and tracking ships. A third phase will be directed to establishing the essential variables needed for ship control during underway replenishment and their required accuracy. Selection and display of these manual control parameters for monitoring by the conning officer and/or helmsmen may extend the operating conditions under which underway replenishment can be carried out.

DOI: 10.3233/ISP-1975-2225001

Journal: International Shipbuilding Progress, vol. 22, no. 250, pp. 187-203, 1975