Columbia River Entrance Channel Ship Motion Study

This study is a part of the overall program for the Columbia River channel development, directed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The objective of the study was, through direct measurements of vessel motions in the channel, to provide pertinent information for analysis of channel project modification. A portable measuring system with instrumentation to record pitch, roll, heave, heading and vessel position was specifically developed for this purpose. Statistical analyses of the measured data in terms of both short term and long term distributions of the vessel motions are conducted. The results indicate that a deeper but narrower channel is a viable option among the several alternatives being considered in the current development.