SLAMMING: THE ROLE OF HYDROELASTICITY

In spite of effort of many researches the role of hydroelasticity is not well understood for slamming problems. In this paper the slamming problem is studied numerically. Based on results of calculations some conclusions are given, setting a range within which hydroelasticity plays an important role. It was found that the ratio between the impact duration and the period of first mode of vibration of dry structure is the key factor in taking the decision when the solution of the structural response should include hydroelastic effects. An estimation of the error in prediction of the structural response if the effect of hydroelasticity is neglected is also discussed in this paper. Several different models and numerical codes are used for the problem of a wedge-shaped structure penetrating water at small deadrise angles. The effect of hydroelasticity is studied as a function of different parameters influencing the impact interaction. These parameters include stiffness of the structure, presence of entrapped air between the structure and the water surface, and penetration of water at different deadrise angles.