Study on Stopping Ability of a Ship Equipped with Azimuth Propeller

An azimuth propeller refers to a propeller capable of generating thrust in all directions by rotating its housing through an electric motor. It is used for offshore specialized vessels because it improves berthing and maneuvering performances in the port, and it enables dynamic positioning. A maritime autonomous surface ship, which has recently attracted attention, is likely to be equipped with a bow thruster and an azimuth propeller, rather than a general propulsion and steering gear system, to implement automatic berthing and un-berthing. Therefore, continuous studies will be necessary for the maneuvering performance of ships equipped with an azimuth propeller.