| Abstract | As offshore petroleum exploration in Canadian waters grows continuously, the need for improved offshore safety rises also. The unique weather conditions (wind and waves, cold temperatures and ice) off the Canadian coast must be addressed. As part of the Escape, Evacuation, and Rescue team, I was involved in experiments at the Institute of Ocean Technology, which established the operational weather limits of Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC). To do this, we used model survival crafts to perform typical tasks in a controlled environment of wind and waves in the Offshore Engineering Basin. Although the data and results have not yet been analyzed, several preliminary conclusions can be drawn. The MadRock model seemed to have better maneuvering in the weathers then the other two models. Also, it was found that the greatest setback occurred when the models were launched on troughs and up slopes. I would recommend that the research team improve the design of the model launch system be improved to allow the models to experience their natural motions without influence from the current system. I would also recommend that the wind machines be upgraded to minimize swirling. |
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