Abstract
A time domain simulation method for wave-induced motions of tow and towed ships in head seas is presented. The present method uses a 2D lumped mass method for expressing the dynamics of towline, and so can take into consideration the effects of self-weight and deformation of towline and the fluid resistance acting on it. The present method can calculate not only wave-induced motions of tow and towed ships but also tension acting on a towing point in time domain. In order to validate the present method, using a ship model with twin podded propellers as tow ship and SR108 container ship model as towed ship, the simulations of wave-induced motions of tow and towed ships and tension acting on a towing point were made in various wave lengths and the calculated results were compared with the model test results. As a result, although there is some room for improvement, the present method can roughly capture the wave-induced motions of tow and towed ships and tension behavior during towing in head seas.
