The performance and stability of crew boats in dynamic maritime environments are significantly influenced by hull geometry, particularly the design of the bow. This study investigates the influence of various elliptical bulbous bow configurations and vessel speeds on the Response Amplitude Operator (RAO) in heave and pitch motions. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations via ANSYS AQWA, four bow configurations, including a bare hull and three bulbous bow variants, were analyzed at speeds of 6, 12, and 18 knots under regular wave conditions defined by the Joint North Sea Wave Project (JONSWAP) spectrum. To validate the accuracy and reliability of the simulation method employed in this study, a comprehensive validation procedure was undertaken. For heave motion, the RAO deviation was 3.71%, and for pitch, 4.59%, both within acceptable CFD validation standards. Results indicate a minimal impact at lower speeds; however, at 18 knots, Bow 3 achieved the most significant reduction in RAO, with reductions of up to 9% in heave and 22.4% in pitch. These findings confirm the importance of optimized bow geometry in enhancing seakeeping performance.
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