Hydrodynamic Optimisation of a Stabilized Mono-Hull Cargo Vessel for High Speed Sea Transport

In this paper the preliminary design of an innovative cargo trimaran ship for the transport of trailers is presented. First a general description of the concept design is introduced, highlighting the most important characteristics of the cargo trimaran HSC C160. Then, the study carried out on the hull to optimize the hydrodynamic performance of the vessel for lower resistance is presented, along with the prediction of the required power. Power prediction was first estimated by CFD analysis and then by towing tank model test. Specific attention is then given to the procedure used to evaluate the wave induced motion (seakeeping) of the ship and to determine the global dynamic loads to be used for structure strength analysis. A detailed description of the assumed methodology is presented together with a discussion of the obtained results, giving demonstration of the real potential of this innovative design.