Maneuvring Behavior of Push Convoys in Different Barge Configurations

Ship maneuvring simulators are a useful tool for the design of inland waterways and for training of skippers. The realism of the maneuvring prediction is a key success factor. In this paper, a 6 DOF (degrees of freedom) maneuvring model is presented which is able to predict the maneuvring behavior of push convoys in different, rigidly connected configurations (number of barges, draft of the barges, and position of the pusher) and for different water depths. The coefficients of this maneuvring model have been deter-mined based on captive model tests and the realism is exemplified with a number of fast time simulation runs, including the turning on the spot of a convoy by means of uncoupled control of rudders and propellers. Final validations were performed during real-time simulation runs with experienced skippers.