Publications

Publications

Parametric Studies of DDG-81 Ship Shock Trial Simulations

This thesis investigates the dynamic response of the DDG-81 destroyer to underwater explosions using detailed finite element simulations in LS-DYNA. It parametrically varies charge size, standoff distance, and location to demonstrate the utility of finite element methods in predicting complex structural responses to such events.

Dynamic Response of a Catamaran-Hull Ship Subjected to Underwater Explosions

Hakan Ucar

This thesis investigates the dynamic response of thin-hulled catamaran ships to underwater explosions using finite element analysis and fluid-structure interaction (FSI) with ABAQUS/Explicit. It models various explosion conditions to determine structural deformations based on charge weight and standoff distance, providing valuable data for survivability studies of current and future catamaran hull ship designs.

Applications of ALE Analysis Approach to Underwater and Air Explosion Problems

Theodore Trevino

Using LS‑DYNA’s ALE formulation, this work simulates TNT‑driven shock waves in water and air to study fluid–structure and fluid–air interactions under explosive loading. Validated against established shock‑hardening standards, the models accurately predict pressure pulses and structural responses, highlighting a cost‑effective, reliable alternative to traditional live‑fire testing.

Surface Ship Shock Modeling and Simulation: Extended Investigation

Philip E. Malone

This thesis surveys past NPS work on simulating ship responses to underwater explosions and validates simplified models before tackling full 3D analyses. It explores the minimum fluid domain needed to capture cavitation effects on hull dynamics and presents an updated finite‑element model for DDG 53. The goal is to help design safer, more resilient ships while potentially reducing the scope of live shock trials.

Underwater explosion testing of catamaran-likestructure vs. simulation

Jong Wan Park

This paper investigates the shock response of structures subjected to underwater explosions through both experimental testing and numerical simulations using the LS-DYNA code and ALE technique. It also assesses the feasibility of applying scaling laws to such tests, aiming to provide a viable alternative to full-scale experiments.