Time-domain computation of large amplitude 3D ship motions with forward speed

Time-domain computations of 3D ship motions with forward speed are presented in this paper. The method of computation is based upon transient Green function. Both linear and nonlinear (large-amplitude) computations are performed where the included nonlinearities are those arising from the incident wave, but the diffraction and radiation forces are otherwise retained as linear. The incident wave can be described by any explicit nonlinear model. Computations over a variety of wave and speed parameters establish the robustness of the algorithm, which include high speed and following waves. Comparison of linear and nonlinear computations show that nonlinearities have a considerable influence on the results, particularly in predicting the instantaneous location of the hull in relation to the wave, which is crucial in determining forefoot emergence and deck wetness. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.