Toward Optimized Estimation of Maximum Ship Wave Height in Inland Waterways

With the rapid development of inland waterway transport, vessel traffic flow becomes increasingly busy. Ship-induced waves result in significant hydrodynamic effects on inland waterway infrastructures and ship navigation safety. The characteristics of ship-induced waves could not only provide a reference for ship hull form optimization but also support the scientific maintenance of waterway infrastructure. In the context of extensive field ship wave observations under complex circumstances, an optimized estimation formula has been proposed considering the influence of ship dimensions. Different dimensionless variables were introduced, and the estimation formula was optimized through the π theorem. Its coefficients were determined by the least square fitting method. A detailed comparison with the classic estimation formulae demonstrates that the proposed formula would provide accurate estimation of ship waves under various conditions in inland waterways. The root mean square error is reduced by approximately 49% in contrast with the traditional estimation formulae. Additionally, a high coefficient of determination was derived as 0.88, highlighting its versatility in maximum ship wave height estimation of inland waterways. The present study shares valuable insights into ship wave height estimation which would be beneficial for inland waterways planning and design.