Prediction of the launching behaviour of a free-fall lifeboat

Abstract

The paper is focussed on determination of the trajectory of the free-fall boat and dynamic forces acting upon its occupants to minimize the risk of an injury. A software package for predicting the behaviour of the boat during launching has been developed on the basis of the mathematical model of the launching motion. The simulation procedure, when used in course of design, makes it possible to improve the hull shape and properly position the seats to ensure minimum load exerted upon the occupants. The described procedure was verified in course of model tests and by measurements taken during tests of prototypes.