The development of a ride control system for fast ferries

Abstract In the expanding market for fast ferries there is a growing requirement for the use of Ride Control Systems (RCS) to give enhanced passenger comfort and reduced crew fatigue. Such a system, the “Ocean Leveller”, has been developed by AMECRC for Austal Ships Pty Ltd. and this has been used in 40 m catamarans and monohulls. Dynamic simulation played an important role in the development of the RCS and it continues to be used, as the application of the system is extended to both larger vessels and others of different configuration. This paper describes the development of the control system, demonstrates the role of simulation, outlines its development and illustrates how the verified model can be utilised.