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Lookup NU author(s): Dr YERONG Zhang, Dr Yongchang Pu, Professor Zhiqiang HuORCiD
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
© 2026 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Shanghai Jiao Tong University. This is an open access article under the CC BY license. http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ This study presents an innovative method with mathematical and numerical model to address the structural challenges posed by time-varying mass characteristics in special-purpose marine vessels, such as Trailing Suction Hopper Dredgers. The proposed model accounts for the additional loads induced by mass variation, which can potentially lead to complex dynamic responses, unexpected structural stresses, and increased fatigue damage under operational conditions. The proposed model leverages a modified Euler-Bernoulli beam theory with time-varying mass functions, combined with an improved Kane’s Dynamic Equation tailored for time-varying mass systems. A semi-analytical vibration analysis approach is employed for variable cross-section hull girder, while dynamic responses under hydrodynamics-induced, engine, and propeller excitation loads are incorporated into a 3D FEM in ANSYS for detailed stress and other structural assessments using Multi-Point Constraints technology. Another innovation is the integration of the proposed numerical model with FEA techniques, providing crucial insights and predictive capabilities that hold significant value in the early design stages of marine vessel with time-varying mass characteristics, enabling more accurate evaluation and optimization of structural responses for real operational conditions. A self-developed FORTRAN program based on the proposed model integrates pre-calculated hydrodynamic results from SESAM, considers defined load cases under variable mass conditions and shifting wet surface characteristics. It enables the efficient transfer of dynamic results, including translational displacement and angular dynamic responses, into FEM with MPC technology for further structural evaluation. This approach facilitates a comprehensive structural assessment such as stress, strain, deformation etc. under varying mass and environmental conditions. It provides engineers with efficient tools to optimize vessel design, enhance structural reliability, and mitigate fatigue risks, thereby contributing to safer and more reliable operations of special-purpose vessels with time-varying mass systems.
Author(s): Zhang Y, Pu Y, Hu Z
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Journal of Ocean Engineering and Science
Year: 2026
Pages: Epub ahead of print
Online publication date: 12/04/2026
Acceptance date: 07/04/2026
Date deposited: 24/06/2026
ISSN (electronic): 2468-0133
Publisher: Shanghai Jiaotong University
URL: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joes.2026.04.005
DOI: 10.1016/j.joes.2026.04.005
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