Journal of Marine Science and Engineering

17 pages, 8198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AUV 3D Path Planning Based on the Improved Hierarchical Deep Q Network

by Yushan Sun, Xiangrui Ran, Guocheng Zhang, Hao Xu and Xiangbin Wang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020145 - 24 Feb 2020

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 5109

This study proposed the 3D path planning of an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) by using the hierarchical deep Q network (HDQN) combined with the prioritized experience replay. The path planning task was divided into three layers, which realized the dimensionality reduction of state [...] Read more.

This study proposed the 3D path planning of an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) by using the hierarchical deep Q network (HDQN) combined with the prioritized experience replay. The path planning task was divided into three layers, which realized the dimensionality reduction of state space and solved the problem of dimension disaster. An artificial potential field was used to design the positive rewards of the algorithm to shorten the training time. According to the different requirements of the task, this study modified the rewards in the training process to obtain different paths. The path planning simulation and field tests were carried out. The results of the tests corroborated that the training time of the proposed method was shorter than that of the traditional method. The path obtained by simulation training was proved to be safe and effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Unmanned Marine Vehicles)

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17 pages, 2185 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamics Simulation of the Risk Coupling Effect between Maritime Pilotage Human Factors under the HFACS Framework

by Xinxin Zhang, Weijiong Chen, Yongtao Xi, Shenping Hu and Lijun Tang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020144 - 22 Feb 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4098

Abstract

Maritime pilotage is an important guarantee for the safety of water traffic in port. The pilot is affected by the complex port environment, the differences of crew and equipment of different ships, the physical and psychological pressure of the pilot himself, as well [...] Read more.

Maritime pilotage is an important guarantee for the safety of water traffic in port. The pilot is affected by the complex port environment, the differences of crew and equipment of different ships, the physical and psychological pressure of the pilot himself, as well as the management factors from the pilot station and maritime safety administration. In order to avoid pilotage accidents (PAs), it is necessary to study the coupling effect of human-organizational factors (HOFs) on PAs. In this paper, from the perspective of HOF risk coupling in pilotage, the problem of HOF risk coupling in maritime pilotage is studied by using the hierarchical classification idea of the human factors analysis and classification system (HFACS) and the method of system dynamics (SD). First of all, HFACS is used to analyse the HOF risk causal elements (RCEs) in pilotage, and 70 RCEs are summed up in four layers; secondly, the SD coupling model of RCEs is constructed; finally, based on a dataset of PAs collected by the Shanghai Harbour Pilot Association, the coupling simulation of RCEs in pilotage is carried out, and the volatility is evaluated. In general, the safety situation of maritime pilotage has been improving in the Shanghai port. However, four RCEs (negligence, habit, pilotage experience, and violations) in unsafe acts and two RCEs (teamwork and personal safety awareness) in precondition for unsafe acts contribute the most to maritime PAs and need to be paid attention to. Full article

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17 pages, 5777 KiB

Open AccessArticle

PlanetScope and Landsat 8 Imageries for Bathymetry Mapping

by Bassam Gabr, Mostafa Ahmed and Yehia Marmoush

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020143 - 21 Feb 2020

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5460

Abstract

Bathymetry has a great importance in coastal projects. Obtaining proper bathymetric information is necessary for navigation, numerical modeling, and coastal zone management studies. Over the past three decades, a number of measuring protocols have been validated for bathymetry mapping, either by means of [...] Read more.

Bathymetry has a great importance in coastal projects. Obtaining proper bathymetric information is necessary for navigation, numerical modeling, and coastal zone management studies. Over the past three decades, a number of measuring protocols have been validated for bathymetry mapping, either by means of echosounding or LIght Detection and Ranging (LIDAR). Although these traditional methods hold a high vertical accuracy, they may have limitations in accessibility for some areas. Remote sensing (RS) techniques can be alternatively utilized for bathymetry extraction and update for such cases. The satellite derived bathymetry (SDB) can be analytically or empirically obtained based on various RS datasets with different spatiotemporal resolution. The current study proposes a methodology to spatially enhance the Landsat-derived bathymetry. Two different satellite images, i.e., Landsat and PlantScope with a spatial resolution of 30 and 3 m respectively have been assessed in bathymetry mapping. The Landsat image resolution has been spatially enhanced to match the Planetscope resolution. The panchromatic band of the Landsat image has been downscaled and used for pan-sharpening the multispectral bands. The bathymetry was empirically estimated from the blue and green spectral bands using the linear model by Lyzenga. The SDB model was calibrated using field measurements of water depths observed by a single beam echosounder. The Bathymetry detection methodology has been applied in an area of the Northern coast of Egypt. The SDB from the PlanetScope, Landsat 8 OLI, and Enhanced Landsat 8 OLI were assessed using error analysis. It was found that the Enhanced Landsat has a comparable result with the PlanetScope. The root mean square error is 0.38 and 0.43 m for PlanetScope and Enhanced Landsat, respectively. The current methodology was also tested by the ratio transform model for SDB and the results revealed the same conclusion as the linear model. Thus, the developed algorithm provides SDB using free Landsat images that is of comparable accuracy to the relatively expensive PlanetScope SDB. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Coastal Engineering)

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11 pages, 506 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Steady Streaming Induced by Asymmetric Oscillatory Flows over a Rippled Bed

by Pietro Scandura, Carla Faraci and Paolo Blondeaux

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020142 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2246

Abstract

The flow induced by progressive water waves propagating over a rippled bed is reproduced by means of the numerical solution of momentum and continuity equations to gain insights on the steady streaming induced in the bottom boundary layer. When the pressure gradient that [...] Read more.

The flow induced by progressive water waves propagating over a rippled bed is reproduced by means of the numerical solution of momentum and continuity equations to gain insights on the steady streaming induced in the bottom boundary layer. When the pressure gradient that drives the flow is given by the sum of two harmonic components an offshore steady streaming is generated within the boundary layer which persists in the irrotational region. This steady streaming depends on the Reynolds number and on the geometrical characteristics of the ripples. Nothwithstanding the presence of a steady velocity component, the time-average of the force on the ripples vanishes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydro-Morphodynamics of Coastal Areas)

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33 pages, 26832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cavitation on Model- and Full-Scale Marine Propellers: Steady And Transient Viscous Flow Simulations At Different Reynolds Numbers

by Ville Viitanen, Timo Siikonen and Antonio Sánchez-Caja

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020141 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5976

Abstract

In this paper, we conducted numerical simulations to investigate single and two-phase flows around marine propellers in open-water conditions at different Reynolds number regimes. The simulations were carried out using a homogeneous compressible two-phase flow model with RANS and hybrid RANS/LES turbulence modeling [...] Read more.

In this paper, we conducted numerical simulations to investigate single and two-phase flows around marine propellers in open-water conditions at different Reynolds number regimes. The simulations were carried out using a homogeneous compressible two-phase flow model with RANS and hybrid RANS/LES turbulence modeling approaches. Transition was accounted for in the model-scale simulations by employing an LCTM transition model. In model scale, also an anisotropic RANS model was utilized. We investigated two types of marine propellers: a conventional and a tip-loaded one. We compared the results of the simulations to experimental results in terms of global propeller performance and cavitation observations. The propeller cavitation, near-blade flow phenomena, and propeller wake flow characteristics were investigated in model- and full-scale conditions. A grid and time step sensitivity studies were carried out with respect to the propeller performance and cavitation characteristics. The model-scale propeller performance and the cavitation patterns were captured well with the numerical simulations, with little difference between the utilized turbulence models. The global propeller performance and the cavitation patterns were similar between the model- and full-scale simulations. A tendency of increased cavitation extent was observed as the Reynolds number increases. At the same time, greater dissipation of the cavitating tip vortex was noted in the full-scale conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the Sixth International Symposium on Marine Propulsors)

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21 pages, 1362 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Simulation of Marine Towing Cable Dynamics Using a Finite Elements Method

by Álvaro Rodríguez Luis, José Antonio Armesto, Raúl Guanche, Carlos Barrera and César Vidal

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020140 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4096

Abstract

A numerical model to study the towing maneuver for floating and submerged bodies has been developed. The proposed model is based on the dynamic study of a catenary line moving between two bodies, one body with imposed motion, and the other free to [...] Read more.

A numerical model to study the towing maneuver for floating and submerged bodies has been developed. The proposed model is based on the dynamic study of a catenary line moving between two bodies, one body with imposed motion, and the other free to move. The model improves previous models used to study the behavior of mooring systems based on a finite element method by reducing the noise of the numerical results considering the Rayleigh springs model for the tension of the line. The code was successfully validated using experimental results for experimental data from different authors and experiments found in the literature. Sensitivity analysis on the internal damping coefficient and the number of elements has been included in the present work, showing the importance of the internal damping coefficient. As an example of the application of the developed tool, simulations of towing systems on a real scale were analyzed for different setups. The variation of the loads at the towed body and the position of the body were analyzed for the studied configurations. The reasonable results allow us to say that the proposed model is a useful tool with several applications to towing system design, study or optimization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)

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19 pages, 11283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimation of the Motion Performance of a Light Buoy Adopting Ecofriendly and Lightweight Materials in Waves

by Se-Min Jeong, Bo-Hun Son and Chang-Yull Lee

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020139 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4050

Abstract

In this study, the methods and results of numerical simulations to estimate the motion performance of a newly developed lightweight light buoy in waves and to check the effect of conceptually developed appendages on that performance were introduced. The results from a potential-based [...] Read more.

In this study, the methods and results of numerical simulations to estimate the motion performance of a newly developed lightweight light buoy in waves and to check the effect of conceptually developed appendages on that performance were introduced. The results from a potential-based motion analysis with viscous damping coefficients obtained from free decay tests using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and those obtained from wave motion simulation using CFD were compared. From these results, it was confirmed that viscous damping should be considered when the frequency of an incoming wave is close to the natural frequency of the buoy. It was estimated that the pitch and heave motions of the light buoy became smaller when the developed appendages were adopted. Although the quantitative superiority of the appendages was different, the qualitative superiority was similar between both results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waves and Ocean Structures)

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13 pages, 1699 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dimensioning of Fairway Bends—Kinematic Method of Numerical Simulation

by Stanisław Gucma, Marcin Przywarty, Jan Dzwonkowski and Mateusz Bilewski

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020138 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2089

Abstract

The article presents a new kinematic method of numerical simulation intended for establishing dimensions of safe manoeuvring areas of bends in various types of fairways for vessels of specific parameters. The method consists of multiple numerical simulations of a ship’s passage (ship’s centre [...] Read more.

The article presents a new kinematic method of numerical simulation intended for establishing dimensions of safe manoeuvring areas of bends in various types of fairways for vessels of specific parameters. The method consists of multiple numerical simulations of a ship’s passage (ship’s centre of gravity) through a bend, representing the entire physically possible movement of the ship, and an analysis of simulation results. The developed method was verified on the bends of the Świnoujście–Szczecin fairway, by comparing the results to the exact simulation method of a ship’s movements. The relatively high accuracy and low costs of the method allow it to be used in a concept design of built or modern waterway systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Traffic Engineering and International Symposium Information on Ships Conference MTE-ISIS 2019)

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18 pages, 6616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Different Flood Risk and Damage Approaches: A Case of Study in Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico

by Wilmer Rey, Miranda Martínez-Amador, Paulo Salles, E. Tonatiuh Mendoza, Miguel A. Trejo-Rangel, Gemma L. Franklin, Pablo Ruiz-Salcines, Christian M. Appendini and Julián Quintero-Ibáñez

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020137 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4723

Abstract

This study applies three different methods to assess the flood risk and damage from the strongest high-pressure cold front (locally known as ‘Norte’) event in terms of the residual tide from 30 years (1979–2008) of data for Progreso, Yucatan. The most [...] Read more.

This study applies three different methods to assess the flood risk and damage from the strongest high-pressure cold front (locally known as ‘Norte’) event in terms of the residual tide from 30 years (1979–2008) of data for Progreso, Yucatan. The most important difference between the three methods is the estimation of flood vulnerability for Progreso. The first method, proposed by Mexico’s National Center for the Prevention of Disasters (CENAPRED) and used by the Mexican government is based mostly on economic asset (household goods) values and flood impacts. The second (CENAPREDv2) and third (FRI) methods are proposals for assessing risk that include 17 socioeconomic indicators. The former includes economic asset values, as is the case for CENAPRED, while the latter does not. The main results of this study show that the modeled ‘Norte’ event flooded 25% of Progreso’s city blocks, with an estimated economic flood risk of $USD 16,266 (CENAPRED) and $USD 223,779 (CENAPREDv2), and flood damage of $USD 48,848 and $USD 671,918, respectively. When calculating flood risk (FRI) and flood damage (FRI_FD) without monetary terms, the risk categories along the back-barrier behind Progreso varied spatially from ‘very low’ to ‘high’, while areas along the coastal side presented a ‘low’ and ‘very low’ risk. These categories increased for the flood damage because the exceedance probability of the flood was not considered as it was for flood risk in the three methodologies. Therefore, flood damage provides the losses caused by a given flood event without considering how probable that loss may be. In conclusion, this study proposes that the selection of the applied method depends on the main objectives and specific interests when assessing flood risk. For instance, if economic damage is the main concern, then the CENAPRED method should be used as it identifies where the larger economic impacts could occur; when a socioeconomic approach is needed then the FRI should be applied, but if both economic damage and socioeconomic aspects are needed, the CENAPREDv2 is recommended. Besides considering economic aspects, the FRI method also includes social variables that can help to map the most vulnerable population in terms of mobility, education, communication access and others. Therefore, the proposed FRI method is very relevant for disaster risk managers and other stakeholders interested in disaster risk reduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Representation of the Coastal Topo-Bathymetry and Subsurface for Flooding and Erosion Risk Reduction)

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17 pages, 2628 KiB

Open AccessReview

Best Practices for Shale Core Handling: Transportation, Sampling and Storage for Conduction of Analyses

by Sudeshna Basu, Adrian Jones and Pedram Mahzari

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020136 - 20 Feb 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5508

Abstract

Drill core shale samples are critical for palaeoenvironmental studies and potential hydrocarbon reservoirs. They need to be preserved carefully to maximise their retention of reservoir condition properties. However, they are susceptible to alteration due to cooling and depressurisation during retrieval to the surface, [...] Read more.

Drill core shale samples are critical for palaeoenvironmental studies and potential hydrocarbon reservoirs. They need to be preserved carefully to maximise their retention of reservoir condition properties. However, they are susceptible to alteration due to cooling and depressurisation during retrieval to the surface, resulting in volume expansion and formation of desiccation and micro fractures. This leads to inconsistent measurements of different critical attributes, such as porosity and permeability. Best practices for core handling start during retrieval while extracting from the barrel, followed by correct procedures for transportation and storage. Appropriate preservation measures should be adopted depending on the objectives of the scientific investigation and core coherency, with respect to consolidation and weathering. It is particularly desirable to maintain a constant temperature of 1 to 4 °C and a consistent relative humidity of >75% to minimise any micro fracturing and internal moisture movement in the core. While core re-sampling, it should be ensured that there is no further core compaction, especially while using a hand corer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Geological Oceanography)

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14 pages, 4244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thermal Infrared Spectral Characteristics of Bunker Fuel Oil to Determine Oil-Film Thickness and API

by Gang Guo, Bingxin Liu and Chengyu Liu

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020135 - 19 Feb 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4181

Abstract

Remote sensing is an important method for monitoring marine oil-spill accidents. However, methods for measuring oil-film thickness remain insufficient. Due to the stable differences in the surface emissivity and temperature of oil and water, the oil film can be detected using thermal infrared. [...] Read more.

Remote sensing is an important method for monitoring marine oil-spill accidents. However, methods for measuring oil-film thickness remain insufficient. Due to the stable differences in the surface emissivity and temperature of oil and water, the oil film can be detected using thermal infrared. This study measured emissivity of seven different oil-film thicknesses and seven different American Petroleum Institute (API) densities, and analyzed the spectral characteristics. Results show an optimal wavelength position for oil-film thickness and fuel API density monitoring is 12.55 μm. Principal component analysis and continuum removal methods were used for data processing. Stepwise multiple linear regression was used to establish relationships between emissivity and oil slick thicknesses and API densities. Oil-film thickness and fuel API density data were analyzed by principal component analysis and continuum removal before regression analysis. The spectral emissivity data was convolved into Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) and Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) thermal bands to determine potential of the sensor in oil-film detection. The result shows that neither could be used to estimate thickness. The AVHRR-4 band and band 12 and 13 of the ASTER could be used to separate oils from water and have potential to distinguish different oil types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Oil Spills 2020)

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21 pages, 22011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying the Frequency Dependent Interactions between Ocean Waves and the Continental Margin on Seismic Noise Recordings

by Zhen Guo, Yu Huang, Adnan Aydin and Mei Xue

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020134 - 19 Feb 2020

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3350

Abstract

This study presents an exploration into identifying the interactions between ocean waves and the continental margin in the origination of double-frequency (DF, 0.1–0.5 Hz) microseisms recorded at 33 stations across East Coast of USA (ECUSA) during a 10-day period of ordinary ocean wave [...] Read more.

This study presents an exploration into identifying the interactions between ocean waves and the continental margin in the origination of double-frequency (DF, 0.1–0.5 Hz) microseisms recorded at 33 stations across East Coast of USA (ECUSA) during a 10-day period of ordinary ocean wave climate. Daily primary vibration directions are calculated in three frequency bands and projected as great circles passing through each station. In each band, the great circles from all stations exhibit largest spatial density primarily near the continental slope in the western North Atlantic Ocean. Generation mechanisms of three DF microseism events are explored by comparing temporal and spatial variations of the DF microseisms with the migration patterns of ocean wave fronts in Wavewatch III hindcasts. Correlation analyses are conducted by comparing the frequency compositions of and calculating the Pearson correlation coefficients between the DF microseisms and the ocean waves recorded at selected buoys. The observations and analyses lead to a hypothesis that the continental slope causes wave reflection, generating low frequency DF energy and that the continental shelf is where high frequency DF energy is mainly generated in ECUSA. The hypothesis is supported by the primary vibration directions being mainly perpendicular to the strike of the continental slope. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Advances in Marine Engineering Geology)

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17 pages, 2768 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Reflection Analysis of Impermeable Slopes under Bimodal Sea Conditions

by Stephen Orimoloye, Harshinie Karunarathna and Dominic E. Reeve

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020133 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4548

Abstract

Understanding of the reflection characteristics of coastal seawalls is crucial for design. Wave reflection can cause difficulties in small vessel manoeuvring at harbour entrances; this can cause damage to the toe of coastal structures by scouring. Previous studies have examined the reflection characteristics [...] Read more.

Understanding of the reflection characteristics of coastal seawalls is crucial for design. Wave reflection can cause difficulties in small vessel manoeuvring at harbour entrances; this can cause damage to the toe of coastal structures by scouring. Previous studies have examined the reflection characteristics of coastal seawalls under random wind-generated waves without considering the effects of wave bimodality created by the presence of swell waves. This present study focuses on the influence of random wave bimodality on the reflective characteristics of coastal seawalls. 823 experimental tests were conducted to examine the reflection performance of impermeable sloping seawalls under bimodal waves. Reflection coefficients were computed from each test. The analysis of the results suggests that both unimodal and bimodal waves give similar reflection characteristics. However, the reflection coefficient in bimodal sea states seems to be more prolonged than in the unimodal sea states. It was found that the reflection coefficients of coastal seawalls are strongly influenced by the seawall slope, the wave steepness, the relative water depth, and the surf similarity parameters. A new empirical reflection equation to describe the influence of wave bimodality on the reflection characteristics of coastal seawalls has been formulated based on this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Coastal Engineering)

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12 pages, 1332 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Optimized Dislocation of Mobile Sensor Networks on Large Marine Environments Using Voronoi Partitions

by Mario D’Acunto, Davide Moroni, Alessandro Puntoni and Ovidio Salvetti

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020132 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2357

Abstract

The real-time environmental surveillance of large areas requires the ability to dislocate sensor networks. Generally, the probability of the occurrence of a pollution event depends on the burden of possible sources operating in the areas to be monitored. This implies a challenge for [...] Read more.

The real-time environmental surveillance of large areas requires the ability to dislocate sensor networks. Generally, the probability of the occurrence of a pollution event depends on the burden of possible sources operating in the areas to be monitored. This implies a challenge for devising optimal real-time dislocation of wireless sensor networks. This challenge involves both hardware solutions and algorithms optimizing the displacements of mobile sensor networks in large areas with a vast number of sources of pollutant factors based mainly on diffusion mechanisms. In this paper, we present theoretical and simulated results inherent to a Voronoi partition approach for the optimized dislocation of a set of mobile wireless sensors with circular (radial) sensing power on large areas. The optimal deployment was found to be a variation of the generalized centroidal Voronoi configuration, where the Voronoi configuration is event-driven, and the centroid set of the corresponding generalized Voronoi cells changes as a function of the pollution event. The initial localization of the pollution events is simulated with a Poisson distribution. Our results could improve the possibility of reducing the costs for real-time surveillance of large areas, and other environmental monitoring when wireless sensor networks are involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signals and Images in Sea Technologies)

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17 pages, 4068 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Implementation and Validation of a Potential Model for a Moored Floating Cylinder under Waves

by Maria Gabriella Gaeta, Giacomo Segurini, Adrià M. Moreno and Renata Archetti

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020131 - 18 Feb 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3129

Abstract

A three degrees-of-freedom model based on the potential flow theory was implemented to represent the motion of a slender cylindrical buoy under waves. The model calibration was performed by means of the comparison between the model results and the experiments performed at the [...] Read more.

A three degrees-of-freedom model based on the potential flow theory was implemented to represent the motion of a slender cylindrical buoy under waves. The model calibration was performed by means of the comparison between the model results and the experiments performed at the Laboratory of Hydraulic Engineering of the University of Bologna (Italy). The dynamics of the floating cylinder, placed at the mid-section of the wave flume and anchored at the bottom through a mooring system of four catenaries, were obtained through videography analysis, providing surge, heave and pitch motions. The implementation of the mathematical model consisted of two main parts: The first has been developed in the frequency domain by applying NEMOH to assess the hydrodynamic coefficients of the object, i.e., the excitation, radiation and added mass coefficients; then, the used mooring system was included in the time-domain model, solving the motion of the floating cylinder, by calibrating the mooring coefficients by comparing the results with the data. The simplicity of the implemented model is a very important feature, and it should be used as a preliminary study to understand the response of moored floating cylinders and others floating bodies under waves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)

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13 pages, 4087 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design of a Measuring Device and Winch Structure for Detecting the Distance and Direction of Two Seabed Pipelines

by Zhuo Wang, Di Lan, Tao Wang and Bo Zhang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020130 - 18 Feb 2020

Viewed by 4282

Abstract

To measure the distance and direction between the flanges of two seabed pipelines, a measuring device for pulling a rope in seawater was designed. Addressing the sealing problem of the key equipment the rotating shaft of the rope winch, we used the magnetic [...] Read more.

To measure the distance and direction between the flanges of two seabed pipelines, a measuring device for pulling a rope in seawater was designed. Addressing the sealing problem of the key equipment the rotating shaft of the rope winch, we used the magnetic coupling principle to transfer the driving moment, and converted the dynamic seal into a static seal structure to reliably seal the motor. Through an experiment measuring two pipelines with the underwater rope pulling device, we verified that the measuring accuracy of the device meets the design requirements, and confirmed the feasibility of applying magnetic coupling technology in winches. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Oceanic and Mechatronic Systems Engineering)

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21 pages, 14386 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

STORMTOOLS, Coastal Environmental Risk Index (CERI) Risk and Damage Assessment App

by Malcolm L. Spaulding, Annette Grilli, Chris Damon, Brian McKenna, Michael Christensen, Nathan Vinhateiro, James Boyd and Grover Fugate

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020129 - 17 Feb 2020

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4163

Abstract

STORMTOOLS Coastal Environmental Risk Index (CERI) predicts the coastal flooding damage to individual structures using coastal flooding levels, including the effects of sea level rise (SLR), provided in terms of the base flood elevation (BFE), specifications of the structure of interest (type and [...] Read more.

STORMTOOLS Coastal Environmental Risk Index (CERI) predicts the coastal flooding damage to individual structures using coastal flooding levels, including the effects of sea level rise (SLR), provided in terms of the base flood elevation (BFE), specifications of the structure of interest (type and first floor elevation) and the associated damage functions from the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers (USACE), North Atlantic Coast Comprehensive Study (NACCS). CERI has been applied to selected coastal communities in Rhode Island, including those in Narragansett Bay and along the southern Rhode Island shoreline. Users can access the results of CERI via ArcGIS online at the CERI website. The objective of this effort was to develop, test, distribute, and evaluate a mobile phone application (App) that allows the user to assess the risk from coastal flooding and the associated damage at the individual structure level using the CERI methodology. The App is publicly available and has been developed for both iOS and Android operating systems. Environmental data to support the App, in terms of 100 y flood BFE maps, including the effects of SLR and the selected site grade elevation, are provided in the application by the URI Environmental Data Center (EDC). The user enters the location and type of the structure of interest (residential number of stories, with or without basement, pile supported or commercial building and the first-floor elevation (FFE)) and the desired SLR. The App then calculates the percent structural damage based on the specified environmental conditions and structure specifications. The App can be applied to any structure at any coastal location within the state. The CERI App development project has been guided by an Advisory Board made up of key constituents involved in coastal management and development in the state. The effort included extensive testing of the App by various user groups. The App structure makes it simple and straightforward to transfer to coastal and inland flooded areas in other locations, requiring only the specification of BFEs and grade elevations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Coastal Engineering)

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36 pages, 19730 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Photogrammetry: Linking the World across the Water Surface

by Erica Nocerino and Fabio Menna

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020128 - 17 Feb 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4154

Abstract

Three-dimensional (3D) surveying and modelling of the underwater environment is challenging; however, it becomes even more arduous when the scene or asset to measure extends from above to underwater through the water surface. While this is topic of high interest for a number [...] Read more.

Three-dimensional (3D) surveying and modelling of the underwater environment is challenging; however, it becomes even more arduous when the scene or asset to measure extends from above to underwater through the water surface. While this is topic of high interest for a number of different application fields (engineering, geology, archeology), few solutions are available, usually expensive and with no guarantee of obtaining homogenous accuracy and resolution in the two media. This paper focuses on a procedure to survey and link the above and the underwater worlds based on photogrammetry. The two parts of the asset, above and underwater, are separately surveyed and then linked through two possible analytical procedures: (1) independent model adjustment or (2) relative orientation constraints. In the first case, rigid pre-calibrated rods are installed across the waterline on the object to be surveyed; in the second approach, a synchronized stereo-camera rig, with a camera in water and the other above the water, is employed. The theoretical foundation for the two approaches is provided and their effectiveness is proved through two challenging case studies: (1) the 3D survey of the leak of the Costa Concordia shipwreck and (2) 3D modelling of Grotta Giusti, a complex semi-submerged cave environment in Italy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Imaging)

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18 pages, 1741 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improved VIV Response Prediction Using Adaptive Parameters and Data Clustering

by Jie Wu, Decao Yin, Halvor Lie, Signe Riemer-Sørensen, Svein Sævik and Michael Triantafyllou

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020127 - 17 Feb 2020

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3053

Abstract

Slender marine structures such as deep-water riser systems are continuously exposed to currents, leading to vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of the structure. This may result in amplified drag loads and fast accumulation of fatigue damage. Consequently, accurate prediction of VIV responses is of great [...] Read more.

Slender marine structures such as deep-water riser systems are continuously exposed to currents, leading to vortex-induced vibrations (VIV) of the structure. This may result in amplified drag loads and fast accumulation of fatigue damage. Consequently, accurate prediction of VIV responses is of great importance for the safe design and operation of marine risers. Model tests with elastic pipes have shown that VIV responses are influenced by many structural and hydrodynamic parameters, which have not been fully modelled in present frequency domain VIV prediction tools. Traditionally, predictions have been computed using a single set of hydrodynamic parameters, often leading to inconsistent prediction accuracy when compared with observed field measurements and experimental data. Hence, it is necessary to implement a high safety factor of 10–20 in the riser design, which increases development costs and adds extra constraints in the field operation. One way to compensate for the simplifications in the mathematical prediction model is to apply adaptive parameters to describe different riser responses. The objective of this work is to demonstrate a new method to improve the prediction consistency and accuracy by applying adaptive hydrodynamic parameters. In the present work, a four-step approach has been proposed: First, the measured VIV response will be analysed to identify key parameters to represent the response characteristics. These parameters will be grouped by using data clustering algorithms. Secondly, optimal hydrodynamic parameters will be identified for each data group by optimisation against measured data. Thirdly, the VIV response using the obtained parameters will be calculated and the prediction accuracy evaluated. Last but not least, classification algorithms will be applied to determine the correct hydrodynamic parameters to be used for new cases. An iteration of the previous steps may be needed if the prediction accuracy of the new case is not satisfactory. This concept has been demonstrated with examples from experimental data. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dynamics of Offshore Structures)

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21 pages, 10508 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Contribution of Multispectral Satellite Image to Shallow Water Bathymetry Mapping on the Coast of Misano Adriatico, Italy

by Anselme Muzirafuti, Giovanni Barreca, Antonio Crupi, Giancarlo Faina, Diego Paltrinieri, Stefania Lanza and Giovanni Randazzo

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020126 - 16 Feb 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6477

Abstract

The results of absolute satellite-derived bathymetry (SDB) are presented in the current study. A comparative analysis was conducted on empirical methods in order to explore the potential of SDB in shallow water on the coast of Misano, Italy. Operations were carried out by [...] Read more.

The results of absolute satellite-derived bathymetry (SDB) are presented in the current study. A comparative analysis was conducted on empirical methods in order to explore the potential of SDB in shallow water on the coast of Misano, Italy. Operations were carried out by relying on limited in situ water depth data to extract and calibrate bathymetry from a QuickBird satellite image acquired on a highly dynamic coastal environment. The image was processed using the log-band ratio and optimal band ratio analysis (OBRA) methods. Preprocessing steps included the conversion of the raw satellite image into top of atmosphere reflectance, spatial filtering, land and water classification, the determination of the optimal OBRA spectral band pairs, and the estimation of relative SDB. Furthermore, calibration and vertical referencing were performed via in situ bathymetry acquired in November 2007. The relative bathymetry obtained from different band ratios were vertically referenced to the local datum using in situ water depth in order to obtain absolute SDB. The coefficient of determination (R²) and vertical root mean square error (RMSE) were computed for each method. A strong correlation with in situ field bathymetry was observed for both methods, with R² = 0.8682 and RMSE = 0.518 m for the log-band ratio method and R² = 0.8927–0.9108 and RMSE = 0.35 m for the OBRA method. This indicated a high degree of confidence of the SDB results obtained for the study area, with a high performance of the OBRA method for SDB mapping in turbid water. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remote Sensing for Maritime and Water Monitoring)

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19 pages, 5942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Design Factors on Drag Forces and Deformations on Marine Aquaculture Cages: A Parametric Study Based on Numerical Simulations

by Shuchuang Dong, Xinxing You and Fuxiang Hu

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020125 - 16 Feb 2020

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5053

Abstract

In Japan, the marine aquaculture net cage has an important role in farming pacific bluefin tuna farming in oceans, and the design of the net cage needs to ensure robustness against hostile oceanic conditions. Accordingly, this study focuses on the drag forces and [...] Read more.

In Japan, the marine aquaculture net cage has an important role in farming pacific bluefin tuna farming in oceans, and the design of the net cage needs to ensure robustness against hostile oceanic conditions. Accordingly, this study focuses on the drag forces and the cage volume of the net cage, and on their variations induced by different design parameters (netting solidity ratio, netting height, and bottom weight). A series of parametric studies on drag force and deformation of the net cage was conducted using a numerical simulation model. Accordingly, the contribution of each parameter to the drag and volume was analyzed using a generalized additive model. The results indicate that the bottom weight had the highest contribution to the holding ratio of the cage volume, whereas the netting height had the highest contribution to the drag coefficient of the net cage. Finally, a fast prediction model was created by a backpropagation (BP) neural network model and was examined for the accurate prediction of the objective variables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Computer-Aided Marine Structures’ Design)

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15 pages, 2256 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Tidal Cycles on Bacterial Biofilm Formation and Biocorrosion of Stainless Steel AISI 316L

by Leslie K. Daille, Javiera Aguirre, Diego Fischer, Carlos Galarce, Francisco Armijo, Gonzalo E. Pizarro, Magdalena Walczak, Rodrigo De la Iglesia and Ignacio T. Vargas

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020124 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3705

Abstract

The effects of tidal cycles associated with the water level on the biocorrosion of stainless steel AISI 316L were studied. Steel coupons were exposed to different conditions of immersion in mesocosms fed by fresh seawater either continuously or in accordance with the periodicity [...] Read more.

The effects of tidal cycles associated with the water level on the biocorrosion of stainless steel AISI 316L were studied. Steel coupons were exposed to different conditions of immersion in mesocosms fed by fresh seawater either continuously or in accordance with the periodicity of natural tides. After 5 and 15 weeks, all coupons were found to have undergone ennoblement associated with the formation of a biofilm. Analysis of the composition of the bacterial community using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) revealed differences in the biological succession. After 15 weeks, exposure to the simulated tidal conditions resulted in biofilms with lesser bacterial richness; the corresponding rate of corrosion, as determined by weight loss, was about 40 times lower compared to the case for the continuous exposure to seawater. Phylogenetic analysis of selected DGGE bands and the inspection of biofilm morphologies revealed that the faster rate of corrosion was associated with the presence of iron-oxidizing Zetaproteobacteria and eukaryotic photosynthetic microorganisms. On the other hand, intermittent exposure to seawater resulted in the succession of microorganisms resistant to the stress associated with sudden environmental changes, which was associated with a low rate of corrosion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Marine Biology)

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18 pages, 4631 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on 2D Motion Characteristics of Submerged Floating Tunnel in Waves

by Zhiwen Yang, Jinzhao Li, Huaqing Zhang, Chunguang Yuan and Hua Yang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020123 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 3826

Abstract

Submerged floating tunnel (SFT) is a new type of transportation infrastructure for crossing sea straits in relatively deeper water. Compared with the fixed tunnel, the main challenge in designing a SFT is the stability maintaining in a complex hydrodynamic environment, especially for the [...] Read more.

Submerged floating tunnel (SFT) is a new type of transportation infrastructure for crossing sea straits in relatively deeper water. Compared with the fixed tunnel, the main challenge in designing a SFT is the stability maintaining in a complex hydrodynamic environment, especially for the wave-induced dynamic load. In this study, a series of systematic experiments were conducted to investigate the 2D motion characteristics (i.e., heave, sway and roll) of the SFT exposed to regular waves. The movement of the SFT model is measured by the image processing method which is a noncontact measurement. The experimental observation of SFT motion during the process of wave and SFT interaction is described in detail, and the influence of several governing parameters is thoroughly analyzed, including the wave height and period, submergence depth, buoyancy to weight ratio (BWR), and the mooring line angle. The results show that the motion amplitudes of SFT increase with the wave height increasing. The effect of wave period is related to the natural period of the structure. The sway, heave and roll of the SFT submerged beneath the water surface are much smaller than that of the SFT on the water surface. With the increase of BWR, the motion of SFT decreases. The motion amplitude increases with mooring line angle increasing. Finally, empirical equations are proposed to estimate the motion characteristics of the SFT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)

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13 pages, 4672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the Underwater Hull Anti-Fouling Silicone Coating on a Ferry’s Fuel Consumption

by Adam Kowalski

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020122 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2855

Abstract

There are well-known specifics of ro-pax ferry shipping, such as the time factor as a consequence of keeping a regular timetable and the priority given to minimizing heeling, pitching, and rolling caused by maximum focus on passenger comfort and ro-ro cargo safety. It [...] Read more.

There are well-known specifics of ro-pax ferry shipping, such as the time factor as a consequence of keeping a regular timetable and the priority given to minimizing heeling, pitching, and rolling caused by maximum focus on passenger comfort and ro-ro cargo safety. It is also extremely important to control the ferry’s fuel consumption, being one of the most important cost components. The aim of the article is to draw the attention of shipping company managers to the great potential that lies in the use of routine operational data, collected exclusively on board the ferries. It is worth noting that the research in this paper is based on standard office software packages rather than advanced statistical methods of data analysis, which are usually not accessible for shipping managers. Contrary to typical ocean-going vessels, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration when analyzing ro-pax ferry fuel consumption. Moreover, these factors occur, in many cases, accidentally and, thus, they are difficult to observe on board the ferry without utilizing expensive and time-consuming methods. The possibility of fuel control is important not only for economic reasons but also due to air pollution caused by engine exhausts. The article presents an estimation of increased fuel consumption caused by the degradation of the hull silicone anti-fouling coating. The presented estimations of fuel consumption may be treated as the base for calculations of the economic effectiveness of ferries. The attempt to resolve the above-mentioned problem was made on the basis of research on a real ferry, which took place on the Świnoujście-Trelleborg line between 2007 and 2019. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Traffic Engineering and International Symposium Information on Ships Conference MTE-ISIS 2019)

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14 pages, 4151 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Top Tension on Vortex-Induced Vibration of Deep-Sea Risers

by Jie Zhang, He Guo, Yougang Tang and Yulong Li

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020121 - 15 Feb 2020

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3190

Abstract

With the increase of water depth, the design and use of the top-tensioned risers (TTR) are facing more and more challenges. This research presents the effect of top tension on dynamic behavior of deep-sea risers by means of numerical simulations and experiments. First, [...] Read more.

With the increase of water depth, the design and use of the top-tensioned risers (TTR) are facing more and more challenges. This research presents the effect of top tension on dynamic behavior of deep-sea risers by means of numerical simulations and experiments. First, the governing equation of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of TTR based on Euler-Bernoulli theory and Van der Pol wake-oscillator model was established, and the effect of top tension on natural vibration of TTR was discussed. Then, the dynamic response of TTR in shear current was calculated numerically by finite difference method. The displacement, bending stress and vibration frequency of TTR with the variation of top tension were investigated. Finally, a VIV experiment of a 5 m long flexible top-tensioned model was carried out at the towing tank of Tianjin University. The results show that the vibration displacement of TTR increases and the bending stress decreases as the top tension increases. The dominant frequency of VIV of TTR is controlled by the current velocity and is barely influenced by the top tension. With the increase of top tension, the natural frequency of TTR increases, the lower order modes are excited in the same current. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waves and Ocean Structures)

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2 pages, 194 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Offshore Wind Farms

by María Dolores Esteban, José-Santos López-Gutiérrez and Vicente Negro

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020120 - 14 Feb 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2431

Abstract

In 2018, we were approached by the editorial team of the Journal of Marine Science and Engineering (MDPI editorial) to act as guest editors of a Special Issue related to offshore wind energy [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Offshore Wind Farms)

22 pages, 4842 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Investigation into Freak Wave Effects on Deepwater Pipeline Installation

by Pu Xu, Zhixin Du and Shunfeng Gong

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 119; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020119 - 14 Feb 2020

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4076

Abstract

Freak waves are an extreme marine environment factor in offshore structure design and become a potential risk, particularly for laying oil-gas pipelines in deep waters. The objective of this study was to reveal the freak wave effects on dynamic behaviors of offshore pipelines [...] Read more.

Freak waves are an extreme marine environment factor in offshore structure design and become a potential risk, particularly for laying oil-gas pipelines in deep waters. The objective of this study was to reveal the freak wave effects on dynamic behaviors of offshore pipelines for deepwater installation. Thus, a dedicated finite element model (FEM) for deepwater pipeline installation by the S-lay method was developed with special consideration of freak waves. The FEM also took pipelay vessel motions, pipe–stinger roller interactions, and the cyclic contacts between the pipeline and seabed soil into account. Real vessel and stinger data from an actual engineering project in the South China Sea were collected to obtain an accurate simulation. Moreover, an effective superposition approach of combined transient wave trains and random wave trains was introduced, and various types of freak wave trains were simulated. Extensive numerical analyses of a 12 inch gas pipeline being installed into a water depth of 1500 m were implemented under various freak wave conditions. The noticeable influences of freak waves on the pipeline and seabed responses were identified, which provides significant awareness of offshore pipelines for deepwater installation design and field operation monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safe, Secure and Sustainable Oil and Gas Drilling, Exploitation and Pipeline Transport Offshore)

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13 pages, 4200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitigation Effect of Perforation Drilling on the Sliding Risk during Spudcan Installation Close to Footprints

by Pan Gao, Zhihui Liu, Danda Shi, Xuehua Fu and Keliang Yan

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 118; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020118 - 14 Feb 2020

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2803

Abstract

Perforation drilling is a promising technique to mitigate the sliding risk of jack-up units installed around footprints. Based on the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method, a 1/2 finite element model, including a rigid Lagrangian spudcan and a Eulerian soil part, was established, and the [...] Read more.

Perforation drilling is a promising technique to mitigate the sliding risk of jack-up units installed around footprints. Based on the coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method, a 1/2 finite element model, including a rigid Lagrangian spudcan and a Eulerian soil part, was established, and the contact interface was modelled with the Coulomb friction model. Validated against an indoor perforation test, the model was adopted to investigate the mitigation mechanism and effects of the borehole diameter, number, depth, and the drilling range. The simulations reveal that the mitigation efficiency increases with the borehole diameter, number, and depth. However, it shows little improvement if the borehole depth increases beyond double footprint depth. The semi-drilling at the outer side of the footprint is a little more effective than the full-drilling at both the inner and outer sides of the footprint. The present work emphasizes the effects of perforation drilling parameters on the mitigation efficiency, which are of great significance to guide the engineering practice and guarantee the safe operation of the jack-up reinstallation close to existing footprints. Full article

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23 pages, 6530 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultimate Limit State Function and Its Fitting Method of Damaged Ship under Combined Loads

by Zhiyao Zhu, Huilong Ren, Chenfeng Li and Xueqian Zhou

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020117 - 14 Feb 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2670

Abstract

The ultimate limit state function is one of the premises for the assessment of structure strength and the safety of ships under severe conditions. In order to study the residual strength of damaged ships under the combined load of vertical and horizontal bending [...] Read more.

The ultimate limit state function is one of the premises for the assessment of structure strength and the safety of ships under severe conditions. In order to study the residual strength of damaged ships under the combined load of vertical and horizontal bending moments acting on the hull girder, the ultimate limit state function of a damaged ship under combined load, and its fitting methods are investigated in this paper. An improved Smith Method is adopted to calculate the residual load carrying capacity of damage ships, where the rotation and translation of the neutral axis of the damaged cross-section are obtained using a particle swarm optimisation method. Because the distribution curve of the residual load carrying capacity of a damaged ship under combined load is asymmetric, the application of traditional explicit polynomial fitting methods results in poor accuracy. In this study, a piecewise weighted least square fitting method is adopted so as to guarantee the continuity in the transitions, and a method is proposed for fitting the ultimate limit state function of a damaged ship under combined load. Calculations of the residual strength show that the improved Smith Method is more accurate than the original Smith Method for the accurate position of the neutral axis. The error analysis of the fitting methods shows that the ultimate limit state function that is fitted using a piecewise weight least square method is more accurate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety Assessment of Ships and Offshore Structures under Severe Condition)

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12 pages, 541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Initial Description of Pilotage and Tug Services in the Context of e-Navigation

by Adam Weintrit

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2020, 8(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse8020116 - 13 Feb 2020

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4987

Abstract

The International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), at its 101st session (5 to 14 June 2019), adopted Resolution MSC.467(101) on the guidance on the definition and harmonization of the format and structure of maritime services in the context of e-Navigation and [...] Read more.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s Maritime Safety Committee (MSC), at its 101st session (5 to 14 June 2019), adopted Resolution MSC.467(101) on the guidance on the definition and harmonization of the format and structure of maritime services in the context of e-Navigation and agreed to consolidate the descriptions of maritime services and to consider them together with all involved international organizations and interested member states, in order to harmonize the provision and exchange of maritime information and data. In doing so, the MSC also approved the initial descriptions of maritime services in the context of e-Navigation (IMO MSC.1/Circ.1610), which had been prepared by the Sub-Committee on Navigation, Communications and Search and Rescue, at its sixth session (16 to 25 January 2019). The information contained in this paper constitutes the descriptions of two selected examples of maritime services, an initial contribution for the harmonization of the formats and structures of pilotage and tug services. The initial description of each of maritime services is expected to be next periodically updated, taking into account developments and related work on international harmonization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maritime Traffic Engineering and International Symposium Information on Ships Conference MTE-ISIS 2019)

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