Hydroelastic Dynamics and Vibration Characteristics of Partially-Submerged Hull Panels

Abstract The interaction between free-surface waves and marine structures plays a critical role in underwater radiated noise (URN) generation and structural integrity, particularly for ships and submarines. Hydroelastic vibrations of hull panels under wave-induced dynamic loading represent a major URN source, with implications for marine ecosystems and acoustic stealth. This study investigates the hydroelastic response of partially submerged hull panels subjected to free-surface wave interactions, focusing on deformation dynamics, modal characteristics, and the impact of panel stiffening. A representative thin square panel, immersed to varying depths, is analyzed using a nonlinear finite element framework coupled with a phase-field method for free-surface modeling. Structural motion is resolved through hydroelastic eigenmodes derived from linear elasticity equations. Results quantify the influence of the steepness of the wave and the immersion ratio, revealing an exponential decrease in deformation with increasing steepness of the wave and a shift toward suction-dominated deformation modes at greater immersions. Replacing the idealized panel with a stiffened configuration demonstrates a 94% reduction in deformation amplitudes, highlighting the efficacy of structural reinforcement. These findings advance the understanding of hydroelastic vibration mechanics and provide actionable insights for noise-mitigating marine design.