The background to this research programme is the implementation of the Energy
Efficiency Design Index (EEDI), which was introduced by the International Maritime
Organization (IMO) in January 2013, and the associated requirements for every
new-built vessel to satisfy the requirements regarding vessel emissions.
An obvious way to meet these requirements is to reduce installed power. However,
this approach may lead to significant safety issues for certain types of ship, as
their ability to manoeuvre under adverse conditions may be compromised.
SINTEF is leading a comprehensive programme of model testing, which
involves more than 1300 tests of three types of vessel with different hydrodynamic
characteristics (RoPax ferry, container vessel and tanker). The work load is being
shared with CEHIPAR, Flanders Hydraulic Research and TU Berlin. The wide range of tests of sea-keeping and manoeuvrability in waves is being used to validate the high-fidelity software tools and methods that will be developed as part of the project.
The project will enable a holistic assessment of ship performance to be carried
out and will formulate minimum power requirements for safe operation under
adverse weather conditions, while maintaining a balance between efficiency,
safety and economy.