Manoeuvring Prediction Program

MARIN internal use only

MPP
In order to predict a ship's manoeuvrability in the early design stage,
computer simulations are used with hydrodynamic coefficients derived
from model tests or from empirically based expressions. For this reason
a computer simulation program MPP (Manoeuvring Prediction Program)
has been developed for the MARIN CRS group.

Model tests
Various series of tests have been carried out in order to obtain
information to derive a mathematical model for the description of
forces. The series comprised segmented model tests for drift and yaw.
Additionally, several rudder-hull interaction tests have been conducted.
The model test results are combined with data based on experience and
data obtained from literature, resulting in a robust mathematical model
applicable to various types of ships.

Cross flow drag method

To determine the hull forces during manoeuvring, the so-called cross
flow drag model is used. In this model, the lateral forces on the ship are
calculated in relation to the local drifting velocity during the manoeuvre.
Herewith the ship is split up into a number of strips. Based on the
geometric qualities of each strip (width, draught and area) the cross
flow drag coefficients are calculated. From these local coefficients the
overall non-linear hydrodynamic coefficients are calculated. Compared
to conventional approaches this method produces a much more reliable
and robust mathematical model.

Applications
MPP aims to be a practical tool that can be used in the first stages of the
design process. Using MPP, the consequences of changes in the main
particulars or appendage design can easily be evaluated.
Several standard manoeuvres can be simulated: turning circle, zig-zag,
stop tests and reversed spiral manoeuvres.

Input

A theoretical-empirical calculation scheme applicable to a modular

manoeuvring model was developed. The excitation forces are divided
into the separate components: hull, rudders, propellers, wind, current
and interaction effects. The calculated forces due to each component are
added together. Using the equations of motions and integration
techniques, the accelerations, the ships velocities and position at each
moment of the manoeuvre are obtained.

MARI N
P.O. Box 28

6700 AA Wageningen
The Netherlands

V. 2013/06/13_MSG

Computational approach

The program is designed to be used in the early design stage. Therefore,

the data necessary for the program has been limited to the data
available in the design stage:
Main particulars of the ship
Main propeller and rudder characteristics
Particulars of fixed appendages
Optional wind area of the ship

T +31 317 49 39 11
F +31 317 49 32 45

E info@marin.nl
I www.marin.nl

Output
Output of the program is presented in the form of time histories of the
manoeuvring data and in tables summarising the relevant
characteristics of the manoeuvre. The results of the program are used to
verify compliance with the recommended manoeuvring limits posed by
IMO Resolution A.751(18).
To visualise the various aspects of the manoeuvrability in time, post
processing software is available at MARIN.

For more information please contact the department Maritime

Simulation & Software Group;
T +31 317 49 32 37
E msg@marin.nl