Use of Machine Learning for Estimation of Wave Added Resistance and its Application in Ship Performance Analysis

In this article, we develop a deep neural network model to estimate the wave added resistance. The required data to train the model is generated using strip theory calculations over a wide range of hull geometries and operational conditions. The model is efficient as it only requires the ship’s main particulars: length, beam, draft, block coefficient, and slenderness ratio. In addition, we present an application of this model in a vessel performance framework. This will be used for predicting propulsion power and analyzing the degree of biofouling on ships from the company Ultrabulk2. The study shows that the developed deep neural network model produces reliable results in predicting the added wave resistance coefficient in comparison to strip theory calculations. Also, the developed ship propulsion and biofouling analysis display satisfactory output for monitoring hull performance under actual ship operational conditions.