Abstract:
This thesis explores the use of finite element methods to analyze ship structures subjected to dynamic loading from underwater explosions. A detailed finite element model of a major portion of the DDG-81 (Winston S. Churchill) destroyer ship was created for use in a series of simulations to explore the dynamic response of the structure to an underwater explosion. The simulations were performed using the commercial finite element code LS-DYNA. Parameters that were varied included explosive charge size, standoff distance from the ship, and the location of the charge relative to the ship. Results from the simulations are presented and discussed. Results show that the finite element method is a useful tool for predicting the response of complex structures to underwater explosion events.
