A Fast Algorithm for the Prediction of Distance at Closest Point of Approach in the Maneuvering of Two Ships

Abstract

Abstract The situation of two ships maneuvering in the vicinity is not so rare, and the significant hydrodynamic interaction effect always poses a threat to navigation safety in these conditions. The assessment of the Distance at Closest Point of Approach (DCPA) is necessary for ship collision avoidance decision-making. In this study, an efficient ship maneuvering model for close-distance maneuvering is developed to predict DCPA rapidly, where the hydrodynamic interaction between ships is accounted for. The Maneuvering Modeling Group (MMG) standard model is used to predict ship motion, and the hydrodynamic interaction effect is estimated in real-time by a code based on the potential flow theory where the variation of free surface is neglected. The ship maneuvering model is validated by the comparison between simulation and experiment in turning and zig-zag maneuvering; furthermore, the validated maneuvering model is used to predict the trajectory under the ship hydrodynamic effect. The characteristic of ship maneuvering under the ship hydrodynamic interaction between two ships is described and illustrated, and the influence of the velocity and lateral distance on the ship trajectory is revealed. A sensitivity analysis of the maneuvering model is performed to determine whether the hydrodynamic interaction effect is necessary to be evaluated exactly for an accurate predicted trajectory and DCPA. The DCPA in different situations is calculated, which represents the ship collision risk.