Experimental Analysis of Dynamic Response and Stability of Capsized Tugboat Under Varied Wave Conditions

Tugboats are critical for maneuvering large vessels and conducting maritime operations, but their vulnerability to capsizing under severe conditions is not completely understood. This study experimentally analyzed the dynamic response of a capsized Buccaneer tugboat under various wave conditions to address this knowledge gap. The heave, pitch, and roll motions of a tugboat were examined under different sea states and wave encounter angles using a scaled-down model (1/23.35) in an ocean engineering basin. The results showed that heave motion maintains an almost constant significant period, with higher energy density at higher sea states. Pitch motion at the bow lengthened with increasing sea state, and an increased energy density was observed, particularly under stern waves, while the stern showed less pronounced pitch motion. Roll motion displayed two significant periods, with higher energy density in longer periods at the stern from sea state 4 onwards. These findings underscore the importance of considering heave, pitch, and roll motions in maritime accident response strategies, particularly under stern wave conditions, and provide valuable insights for improving rescue operations and safety measures for capsized vessels.