Development of a Segmented Model for a Medium-Sized Semi-Displacement Vessel

Segmented models are useful in estimating wave induced loads, particularly for new designs where experience in design loads estimate has not matured yet. Combined with numerical simulation, both methods complement each other and can provide a relatively good estimate of design hydrodynamic loads. This paper discusses efforts at the United States Naval Academy Hydromechanics Laboratory (NAHL) to design, construct and test a 6-foot segmented model of a medium-sized semi-displacement vessel. The vessel is instrumented with a backspline beam, representing the structural stiffness characteristics of the full-scale ship. Model instrumentation is presented including strain gauges placed on the beam as well as local pressure sensors and state of the art Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) strain and pressure sensors.