Allen and Jones revisited

In this paper the prevailing semi-empirical design method, used to predict design slamming pressures for high-speed craft and which is implemented in the scantling rules of the classification societies, is reconstructed and evaluated using numerical and experimental methodologies. It is shown that the present formulations are relevant in terms of the predicted pressures, but that there is room for improvements, particularly in relationship to modern high-speed craft structures. The design method is therefore modified in relationship to these observations using the numerical methodology, and it is concluded that these modifications result in significant improvements regarding the predicted design pressures. Finally a discussion on the analysis methodology; the formulation of lifetime design loads; and the structural loads developed due to the simplified design pressure model is presented.