This study investigates the destabilizing loads exerted on submarines by large-amplitude internal solitary waves (ISWs), which significantly increase the risk of a phenomenon known as “falling deep.” Using numerical simulations and theoretical analysis, the research explores the multi-parameter coupling effects of ISWs on a slender body in a two-layer fluid system. A numerical wave generation method for large-amplitude ISWs, based on the strongly nonlinear adjusted high-order unidirectional (aHOU) model, is proposed. A corresponding numerical model is also developed to simulate the interaction between ISWs and a submerged slender body, with validation against experimental data confirming its accuracy and reliability. The study further examines how wave amplitude, submergence depth, and wave incidence angle affect the load characteristics induced by ISWs. Theoretical analysis identifies the components of ISW-induced loads, revealing a linear relationship between horizontal load and wave amplitude, as well as the influence of submergence depth on the duration of vertical forces. The primary contributor to the horizontal force is identified as the pressure-gradient force generated by the ISW's flow field, while the vertical force is primarily driven by the reduced gravity force due to density stratification and wave forces, which are well-approximated by Morison's formula. Additionally, the peak values of horizontal and vertical forces are significantly affected by wave incidence angle and wave amplitude, respectively. These findings provide a theoretical foundation for understanding the “falling deep” phenomenon encountered by submarines under the influence of ISWs.
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