Validation of Forced Heave Simulations on a Planing Hull

Advances in nonlinear modeling techniques have created opportunities for more robust modeling of planing hull dynamics than previous techniques relying on linear assumptions. These techniques rely on the imposition of complex, coupled forced motions on a hull. RANSE CFD provides a distinct advantage over experimentation when imposing complicated forced motions because mechanical limitations of the forced motion mechanism and uncertainty in the prescribed motion are eliminated, though the accuracy of the simulations needs to be validated. In this work, a series of sinusoidal forced heave experiments on a planing craft are used to validate the force response predicted by simulation for the same forced motion. The accuracy of the predicted force response is evaluated relative to the experiments with the experimental setup uncertainty considered. Within the experimental setup uncertainty, the force response is predicted well by RANSE CFD and is found to be reasonably accurate. The dynamic trim angle is found to have a major impact on the dynamic force response with variations on the order of half a degree having substantial impacts on the measured forces.