Finite element analysis of ship/ice interaction

The transient nonlinear dynamic response of an intermediately thick floating ice-field to ship impact forces has been determined. The finite element method has been utilized in the numerical analysis of the problem, using eight-noted plate elements. Step-by-step integration of the equations of motion has been carried out. Minimum dimension of the numerical model is taken as three times the characteristic length of the ice plate. The impact forces that cause failure in the ice-field have been determined for various parameters such as the velocity of impact, frame angle of the ship and thickness of the ice-field.Peer reviewed: YesNRC publication: Ye