SIMULATION OF THE MANEUVERABILITY OF INLAND WATERWAY TOWS

A mathematical model has been formulated to compute the hydrodynamic forces acting on a barge and tugboat flotilla as it maneuvers around a curve of constant radius. The forces and moments considered include the longitudinal and transverse drag and yaw moment due to the flotilla's own motion through the water, as well as the applied forces of the propeller, ruder and bow thruster. These forces are then used to predict the motion of the flotilla, in surge, sway and yaw, under the prevailing conditions of rudder angle and propeller revolutions per minute. As the flotilla progresses through the curve, its proximity to the channel boundaries is computed, and the rudder angle and propeller speed are adjusted to keep the flotilla within the confines of the channel. The mathematical model thus makes possible a prediction of the time required for a flotilla to negotiate a series of one or more maneuvers through a restricted channel. The analytical aspects of the mathematical model have been incorporated into a FORTRAN program to permit evaluation of the relationships by means of a high speed digital computer.

• Corporate Authors:

  University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

  Department of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers
  Ann Arbor, MI  United States  48109
• Authors:
  • Petrie, G L
• Publication Date: 1976

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Serial:
  • Issue Number: 186

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Barge trains; Barges; Computer programs; Hydrodynamic pressure; Maneuverability; Maneuvering; Mathematical models; Motion; Navigation; Simulation; Towboat operations; Tugboats
• Old TRIS Terms: Barge maneuverability; Barge motions; Hydrodynamic forces; Tow maneuverability
• Subject Areas: Marine Transportation; Terminals and Facilities; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00168325
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Engineering Index
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jan 30 1978 12:00AM