Method for improving container ship´s squat prediction using optical fiber technology

In the recent years much research effort has been devoted to practical navigation problems in getting larger ships safely, especially liner mega size container ships, into existing harbours. The important point of any navigational analysis lies in the accurate determination of the ship´s hull additional sinkage and possible trim changes (squat) generated by hydrodynamic forces when the ship is sailing in restricted waters. This paper aims at presenting the possibility of using optical fiber technology for precise static draft reading which will be used as a datum for further proceedings to determine current draft as one of the important elements on calculating ship´s squat in a seaway, and their possible application in pilotage services. The loaded ships passage plan on pilot portable computer can be upgraded by the data of under keel clearance and ship´s squat using appropriate software for predicting dangerous situation of grounding at seaway. The main goal is to point out that pilot on board ship can determine the ship´s hull squat of the ship underway, and predict imminent danger of grounding due to reduce under keel clearance.