This investigation focuses on the modelling of a floating oscillating water column (FOWC) wave energy converter with a numerical code (ANSYS AQWA) based on potential flow theory. Free-floating motions predicted by the numerical model were validated against experimental data extrapolated from a 1:36 scale model device in regular and irregular sea states. Upon validation, an assessment of the device’s motions when dynamically coupled with a four-line catenary mooring arrangement was conducted at different incident wave angles and sea states ranging from operational to survivable conditions, including the simulation of the failure of a single mooring line. The lack of viscosity in the numerical modelling led to overpredicted motions in the vicinity of the resonant frequencies; however, the addition of an external linear damping coefficient was shown to be an acceptable method of mitigating these discrepancies. The incident wave angle was found to have a limited influence on the magnitudes of heave, pitch, and surge motions. Furthermore, the obtained results indicated that the mooring restoring force is controlled by the forward mooring lines under the tested conditions.

This paper challenges maritime educators (MEs) to utilise the flipped or partially flipped classroom to meet increasingly diverse stakeholder needs. Given the international and geographically dispersed nature of the maritime industry (MI), the skills required are more complex than in a domestic situation. Further considerations include continuous improvement of learning and teaching practices whilst engaging with a unique student cohort, preparing a graduate suited to specific MI requirements and working within constrained university resources. At first, this may appear to be addressing too many divergent stakeholder expectations. The authors propose using backward course design (a design that meets the needs and goals of the specific nature of the MI through stakeholder consultation) as a premise to flipped teaching, thus unifying stakeholder requirements. Skills developed in the flipped classroom are particularly useful within the international nature of the MI. The skills required for effectively working in a linguistically and culturally diverse industry such as teamwork, decision-making, problem-solving and conflict resolution are practised in the flipped classroom. These skills along with specific consideration of MI-based cases and examples discussed in class time produce a more work-ready graduate attuned to specific industry requirements. This paper provides two application examples of the flipped classroom in the MI and highlights how this approach can lead to improved teaching outcomes for MEs.

This paper considers the feasibility of using augmented reality (AR) as a tool for enhancing visualization in maritime operations to avoid collision in different environmental conditions. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO 2010), 90% of maritime accidents due to collisions at sea are caused in part by human error. This study investigates the new technology (AR) used to superimpose holographic images onto the real world; now reaching a state of readiness for commercial application. This paper demonstrates the competence of AR technology to serve as a maritime navigational aid. The research explores the viability of improving navigational safety in low visibility by projecting holograms of real-world objects in the same geo-location as the real object to make them “visible”. The paper presents the logical deconstruction of the technical problems and identified solutions, together with results of experiments used to validate the concept and technology readiness for real word maritime application. The paper presents a verified demonstrator; a proposed holographic bridge interface with an innovative way of presenting information using AR technology. Furthermore, it identifies that new technologies offer the opportunity for enhanced operator performances, with the expectation being that this should lead to reduce risk to persons, property, and the environment.

Foldable containers have the potential to enhance the cost efficiency of the logistics industry and improve the problem of space allocation at seaports. Using primary and secondary data sources the pros and cons of using foldable containers as compared to standard containers are identified, and it is shown that a port can gain cost efficiencies by using foldable containers. A simulation for the Port of Melbourne (Australia) demonstrates that using foldable containers would reduce the projected total number of containers handled by the port in 2035 from 7.057 million to 5.817 million, with an 80% decrease in the number of empty containers. Foldable containers can therefore have a significant impact on the reformation of the transport and logistics systems