Experimental and numerical investigation of lashing bridge and container stack dynamics using a scaled model test

Previously reported container losses were generally attributed to extremely violent motions of containerships due to adverse weather conditions. However, most existing specifications or standards adopted for containers and lashing equipment meet the requirement of static conditions. Hence, further researches on safer container shipping under heavy sea states are required. Consequently, an experimental study method is proposed to measure the dynamic response of 1/10 scaled lashing bridge and container stack. The scaled model of the lashing bridge is constructed based on the similarity theory. Based on two dimensionless numbers, Froude's number and Cauchy's number, eleven container scaled models are employed. A series of experiments with controlled parameters are performed using a three-degrees shaking table (roll, pitch, heave) to present sufficient data to verify the effectiveness of the numerical model. The results of experiments, numerical simulations and calculations of the VERISTAR procedure (developed according to the BV rule) are compared. This study aimed to explore the mechanical behavior of the lashing bridge and container stack under predetermined driving excitations (roll and pitch) which simulated heavy sea states. According to the results, the model can predict conditions similar to real situations of the lashing bridge and container stacks while storages on the weather deck.