WAYS TO IMPROVE THE STEERING OF LARGE CONTAINER SHIPS IN DIFFICULT NAVIGATIONAL AND HYDROMETEOROLOGICAL CONDITIONS

Abstract

The article examines the challenges of operating large container ships in difficult navigational and hydrometeorological conditions. The latest research and publications on the peculiarities of such vessels, such as their large windage area, which depends on their size and carrying capacity are reviewed. Some cases of maneuvering large container ships and the reasons why they become almost uncontrolled at low speeds even with little wind are analysed. The article also discusses the features of the engines and propulsion of these ships, which limit their minimum speed and affect their controllability. The article shows how the rudder and propeller interact with the wind force to create a torque that influences the ship’s stability. A mathematical condition for maintaining the ship’s controllability under wind influence is provided. The article suggests some promising ways of increasing the safety of large container ships by using navigation and control systems, tugs, and new rules for regulating their movement. Attention was drawn to the need to use optical-electronic observation of space satellites to monitor the weather conditions in the busiest sea routes and to predict the weather changes that may affect the ship’s operation. This way, it will be possible to forecast the weather for the next day with sufficient accuracy, which is essential for the safe navigation of canals, challenging areas or port calls of large vessels. Keywords: navigation safety, control and navigation, container ship, windage area of the ship.