Springing loads analysis of large‐scale container ships in regular waves

Hydroelastic effects are particularly pronounced in ultralarge container ships due to their substantial size and high velocity. The computation of combined torsional and bending moments presents a challenge, exacerbated by warping effects. This study focuses on the investigation of wave loads, encompassing vertical, horizontal, and torsional moments, through model tests on a 20,000 TEU container ship. A 1/77 scale model featuring an open U‐shaped backbone was crafted to simultaneously simulate and measure longitudinal, horizontal, and torsional stiffness, along with these loads. Wave loads on the hull, including those resulting from springing effects, were calculated in regular waves, employing hydroelastic theory and accounting for hydrodynamic forces. The study also delves into the characteristics and analysis of spring effects within the wave loads on the hull. The insights garnered from this research contribute to the fatigue analysis and safety assessments of ship structures.