ITTC Recommended

Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 1 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

Effective Date
2002

CONTENTS
1

PURPOSE OF PROCEDURE

EXAMPLE FOR RESISTANCE TEST

2.1
Test Design
2.2
Measurement Systems and Procedure
2.3
Uncertainty Analysis
2.3.1
Bias Limit
2.3.1.1 Hull Geometry (Model Length and Wetted Surface Area)
2.3.1.2 Speed
2.3.1.3 Resistance
2.3.1.4 Temperature/Density/Viscosity
2.3.1.5 Skin Frictional Resistance Coefficient
2.3.1.6 Form Factor
2.3.1.7 Total Bias Limit- Total Resistance Coefficient
2.3.1.8 Total Bias Limit- Residuary Resistance Coefficient
2.3.2
Precision Limit
2.3.3
Total Uncertainties

3.

REFERENCES

Edited by

Approved

Specialist Committee of 23rd ITTC:

Procedures for Resistance, Propulsion and Propeller Open Water Tests
Date

23rd ITTC 2002

Date 2002

Revision
01

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 2 of 17
Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

Uncertainty Analysis, Example for Resistance Test

1 PURPOSE OF PROCEDURE
The purpose of the procedure is to provide
an example for the uncertainty analysis of a
model scale towing tank resistance test following the ITTC Procedures 7.5-02-01-01 Rev 00,
Uncertainty Analysis in EFD, Uncertainty
Assessment Methodology and 7.5-02-01-02
Rev 00, Uncertainty Analysis in EFD, Guidelines for Towing Tank Tests.

By measuring the resistance (Rx), speed (V)

and water temperature (t), and by measuring or
using reference values for the wetted surface
(S) and density () the total resistance coefficient (CT) can be calculated for a nominal temperature of 15 degrees, according to:

2 EXAMPLE FOR RESISTANCE TEST

CT15 deg = CTTm + (C F15 deg C FTm )(1 + k )

This procedure provides an example showing an uncertainty assessment for a model scale
towing tank resistance test. The bias and precision limits and total uncertainties for single and
multiple runs have been estimated for the total
resistance coefficient CT, and residuary resistance coefficient CR in model scale at one
Froude number.
In order to achieve reliable precision limits,
it is recommended that 5 sets of tests with 3
speed measurements in each set are performed
giving in total 15 test points. In this example
the recommended sequence was followed.
Extrapolation to full scale has not been considered in this example. Although it might lead
to significant sources of error and uncertainty,
it is not essential for the present purpose of
demonstrating the methodology.
When performing an uncertainty analysis
for a real case, the details need to be adapted
according to the equipment used and procedures followed in each respective facility.

2.1 Test Design

(2-1)

where
CTTm =

R xTm
0.5 V 2 S

(2-2)

The residuary resistance coefficient can further be calculated as

C R = CTTm (1 + k )C FTm = CT15 deg (1 + k )C F15 deg
(2-3)
In Eq. (2-1) the conversion of the resistance
coefficients from the measured model temperature (index Tm) to a nominal temperature of 15
degrees is made by the ITTC-1978 prediction
method. CF in Eq. (2-1) is calculated according
to the ITTC-1957 frictional correlation line
CF =

0.075
(Log 10 Re- 2) 2

(2-4)

where Re is the Reynolds Number for the respective temperatures.

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

2.2 Measurement Systems and Procedure

Figure 2.1 shows a block diagram for the
resistance test including the individual measurement systems, measurement of individual
variables, data reduction and experimental results.

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 3 of 17
Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

In Section 2.3.1 the bias limits contributing

to the total uncertainty will be estimated for the
individual measurement systems: hull geometry,
speed,
resistance
and
temperature/density/viscosity. The elementary bias
limits are for each measurement system estimated for the categories: calibration, data acquisition, data reduction and conceptual bias.

EXPERIMENTAL ERROR SOURCES

HULL
GEOMETRY

SPEED

X, Y, Z,
BS, BL

V, BV

TEMPERATURE,
DENSITY,
VISCOSITY

RESISTANCE

T0, ,
BT0, B, B

Rx, BRx

CT15deg = CTTm + (CF15deg - CFTm)(1+k)

CTTm = RxTm / (0.5V2S)
CR = CT - (1+k)CF

CT15deg, CR, BCTTm, BCR

PCT15deg(M), PCR(M), PCT15deg(S), PCR(S)
UCT(M), UCR(M), UCT(S), UCR(S)

Individual
measurement
systems
Measurement
of individual
variables

Data
reduction
equations

Experimental
results

Figure 2.1 Block diagram of test procedure.

Using the data reduction Eqs. (2-2) and (23) the bias limits are then reduced to BCTTm, and
BCR respectively. As the adjustments in model
temperature from the measured temperature to

15 degrees are very small the bias limits associated with the Eq. (2-1) conversion have not
been considered.

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Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 4 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

The precision limits for the total resistance

coefficient at a nominal temperature of 15 degrees PCT15deg, and residuary resistance coefficient PCR are estimated by an end-to-end
method for multiple tests (M) and a single run
(S).
Table 2.1 Ship particulars.
Definitions
Symbol
Length between perp.
LPP
Length in waterline
LWL
Length overall submerged
LOS
Breadth
B
Draught even keel
T
Wetted surface incl. rudder
S
Area water plane
AWP
Displacement

Block coefficient
CB=/LPPBT
Water plane coefficient
CWP=AWP/LPPB
Wetted surface coefficient CS=S/(LPP)

Value (unit)
6.500 (m)
6.636 (m)
6.822 (m)
1.100 (m)
0.300 (m)
7.600 (m2)
4.862 (m2)
1.223 (m3)
0.5702 (-)
0.680 (-)
2.695 (-)

Effective Date
2002

2-5)

(U ) = (B ) + (P )
2

CT

CT

CT

(U ) = (B ) + (P )
2

CR

Revision
01

(2-6)

CR

CR

The bias limit associated with the temperature conversion of the measured data, Eq. (2-1),
will not be considered in the present example
and therefore
(2-7)
BC15T deg = BCTmT
The bias limit for BCT can therefore be calculated as:

(B )

CT

C
C
= T BS + T BV +
S
V

CT
C
BRx + T B

Rx

(2-8)

Table 2.2 Constants.

Definitions
Gravity
Density, model basin
Water temperature (resistance test average)

Symbol
g

Value (unit)
9.810 (m/s2)
1000 (kg/m3)
15 (degrees)

In Tables 2.1 and 2.2 the ship particulars and

constants used in the example are tabulated.
2.3 Uncertainty Analysis
The uncertainty for the total resistance
coefficient is given by the root sum square of
the uncertainties of the total bias and precision
limits

The bias limit for Eq. (2-3) is

(B )

CR

C
C

= R BCT + R Bk

k
CT

C
+ R BCF

C F

(2-9)

The precision limits will be determined for

CT15deg and for CR by an end-to-end method
where all the precision errors for speed, resistance and temperature/density/viscosity are
included. The precision limits for a single run
(S) and for the mean value of multiple test (M)
are determined. Regardless as to whether the
precision limit is to be determined for single or
multiple runs the standard deviation must be

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

determined from multiple tests in order to include random errors such as model misalignment, heel, trim etc. If it is not possible to perform repeat tests the experimenter must estimate a value for the precision error using the
best information available at that time. The
precision limit for multiple tests is calculated
according to
P( M )=

K SDev
M

(2-10)

where M = number of runs for which the precision limit is to be established, SDev is the standard deviation established by multiple runs and
K=2 according to the methodology.
The precision limit for a single run can be
calculated according to

P ( S )= K SDev

2.3.1

(2-11)

Bias Limit

Under each group of bias errors (geometry,

speed,
resistance
and
temperature/density/viscosity) the elementary error
sources have been divided into the following
categories: calibration; data acquisition; data
reduction; and conceptual bias. The categories
not applicable for each respective section have
been left out.
2.3.1.1 Hull Geometry (Model Length and
Wetted Surface Area)
The model is manufactured to be geometrical similar to the drawings or mathematical
model describing the hull form. Even though
great effort is given to the task of building a

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Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

model no model manufacturing process is perfect and therefore each model has an error in
form and wetted surface. The influence of an
error in hull form affects not only the wetted
surface but also the measured values by an error in resistance. For example, two hull forms,
with the same wetted surface and displacement,
give different resistance when towed in water if
the geometry is not identical. This error in hull
form geometry is very difficult to estimate, and
will not be considered here. Only the bias errors in model length and wetted surface area
due to model manufacture error are taken into
account.
Model length
Data acquisition:
The bias limit in model length (on the waterline) due to manufacturing error in the model
geometry can be adopted from the model accuracy of 1 mm in all co-ordinates as given in
ITTC Procedure 7.5-01-01-01 Rev 01 Ship
Models. Hence the bias limit in model length
will be BL=2 mm.
Wetted surface
Data acquisition:
In this example, the error in wetted surface
due to manufacturing error in model geometry
is estimated using an ad hoc method. By assuming the model error to be 1 mm in all coordinates, as given in ITTC Procedure 7.5-0101-01 Rev 01, Ship Models, the length will
increase by 2 mm, beam by 2 mm and draught
by 1 mm. If the dimensions are changed while
keeping the block coefficient constant, the displacement
becomes
=

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

(6.5021.1020.3010.5702)1000 =1229.8 kg
which is an increase of -=6.7 kg. Assuming
the wetted surface coefficient to be constant,
the wetted surface for the larger model becomes S=2.696(LPP)=7.622 m2, which
corresponds to an increase of S-S=0.022 m2 or
0.29% of the nominal wetted surface S.

Effective Date
2002

2x150
kg
6x10 kg
3x1 kg
Total weight
displ.

7.5-02
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Page 6 of 17

1223 kg

Revision
01

0.75 kg 2(0.75)2= 1.061

kg
0.05 kg 6(0.05)2= 0.122
kg
0.005
3(0.005)2=
kg
0.009 kg
2.267 kg

The model is loaded on displacement and

therefore an error in hull form with, for example, too large a model are somewhat compensated by the smaller model draught. The increased displacement of 6.7 kg gives, with a
water plane area of AWP=4.862 m2, a decreased
draught of 1.38 mm. With a total waterline
length of 2LWL=13.272 meters the smaller
draught decreases the wetted surface by
13.2720.00138 =0.0183 m2.

The total uncertainty in weight is given by

the root sum square of the accuracy of the
group of weights, 2.267 kg.

Totally, the bias limit in wetted surface due

to the assumed error in hull form will be
BS1=0.022-0.0183=0.0037 m2.

For the deviation in displacement of 2.267

kg, the error in weight displacement equals
2.267/1223 = 0.185%, the error in draught
equals 2.2670.206=0.467 mm and the error in
wetted surface equals BS2=2.2670.00273
=0.0062 m2.

Calibration:
The model weight (including equipment) is
measured with a balance and the model is
loaded to the nominal weight displacement.
The balance used when measuring the model
weight is calibrated to 1.0 kg. The errors in
model and ballast weights are seen in Table
2.3.

Table 2.3 Error in displacement.

Item

Ship model
Ballast
weights

Weights

260 kg
3x200
kg

Individual
weights
1.0 kg
1.0 kg

Weights
Group weights
1.00 kg
3(1.0)2= 1.732
kg

An increase in model weight of 1 kg gives,

with =1000 and a water plane area of 4.862
m2, an additional draught of 1/4.862=0.206
mm. With a waterline length of 13.272 m this
results in an increased wetted surface of
0.00020613.272=0.00273 m2 per kg.

Finally the error in wetted surface is obtained by the root sum square of the two bias
components as BS = 0.00372+0.00622)=0.0072
m2 corresponding to 0.10 % of the nominal
wetted surface area of 7.6 m2.
2.3.1.2 Speed
The carriage speed measurement system
consists of individual measurement systems for
pulse count (c), wheel diameter (D) and 12 bit
DA and AD card time base (t). The speed is
determined by tracking the rotations of one of
the wheels with an optical encoder. The en-

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Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 7 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

coder is perforated around its circumference

with 8000 equally spaced and sized windows.
As the wheel rotates, the windows are counted
with a pulse counter. The speed circuit has a
100 ms time base which enables an update of
the pulse every 10th of a second. A 12-bit DA
conversion in the pulse count limits the maximum number of pulses in 100 ms to 4096. The
output of the speed circuit is 0-10 V so that
4096 counted in 100 ms corresponds to 10 V
output. The output from the encoder is calculated with the equation

V=

cD
8000t

(2-12)

where c is the number of counted pulses in

t=100 ms and D is the diameter of the carriage wheel (0.381 m).
The bias limit from blockage effects has not
been considered.
Pulse count (c)
Calibration:
The optical encoder is factory calibrated
with a rated accuracy of 1 pulse on every update. This value is a bias limit and represents
the minimum resolution of the 12-bit AD data
acquisition card. Therefore, the bias limit
associated with the calibration error will be
Bc1=1 pulse (10V/212=0.00244 V).
Data acquisition:
In the given data acquisition cycle, the
speed data is converted to the PC by two 12-bit
conversions. The resolution is resol=10 V/ 212
= 0.00244V / bit. The AD boards are accurate
to 1.5 bits or pulses, which was determined by
calibrating the boards against a precision volt-

Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

age source. Therefore, the bias associated with

the two conversions is Bc2= Bc3=1.5 pulses
(0.00366 V).
Data reduction:
The final bias occurs when converting the
analogue voltage to a frequency that represents
the pulse count over 10 time bases or one second. This is enabled if correlating the given
frequency to a corresponding voltage output.
The bias limit results from approximating a
calibration (set of data) with a linear regression
curve fit. The statistic is called standard error
estimate (SEE) and is written from Coleman
and Steele (1999) as
N

SEE =

(Y -(aX
i =1

+ b))

(2-13)

N 2

It is proposed by Coleman and Steele

(1999) that a 2(SEE) band about the regression curve will contain approximately 95% of
the data points and this band is a confidence
interval on the curve fit. The curve fit bias limit
is calculated to be 2.5 Hz corresponding to
Bc4= 0.25 pulse (0.000614 V).
The total bias limit for pulse count will then
be

Bc = Bc21 + Bc22 + Bc23 + Bc24

(1

+ 1.52 + 1.52 + 0.252

1
2

2.358 pulse (0.00576 V )

1
2

(2-14)

Wheel diameter (D)

One of the driving wheels of the carriage is
used for the speed measurement. The wheel is
measured with constant time intervals to ensure
the right calibration constant is used.

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

Calibration:
The wheel diameter is measured with a high
quality Vernier calliper at three locations at the
periphery of the wheel which are averaged for
a final value of D. The wheel diameter is
considered accurate to within BD=0.000115 m.
Time base (t)
The time base of the speed circuitry is related to the clock speed of its oscillator module.
Calibration:
The oscillator module is factory calibrated
and its rated accuracy is 1.025 10-5 seconds on
every update giving Bt= 1.025 10-5 seconds.
The data reduction equation is derived from
Eq. (2-12) and can be written
1
2

V V
V

BV =
Bc +
BD +
Bt
c D t

(2-15)
2

Using the nominal values of c=1138.4,

D=0.381 m and t=0.1 s for the mean speed of
V=1.7033 m/s the partial derivatives can be
calculated as
V
D
=
= 0.00150
c 8000 t

(2-16)

c
V
=
= 4.4705
D 8000 t

(2-17)

V cD 1
=

= 17.0327
t 8000 t 2

(2-18)

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01

The total bias limit can then be calculated

according to Eq. (2-15) as
1

(0.00150 2.358)2 + (4.4705 0.000115)2 2

BV =
+ (17.0327 1.025 10 5 )2

= 0.00357

(2-19)
The total bias limit for the speed is
BV=0.00357 m/s corresponding to 0.21% of the
nominal speed of 1.7033 m/s.
The bias limit for the speed could alternatively be determined end-to-end, by calibrating
against a known distance and a measured transit time.
2.3.1.3 Resistance
The horizontal x-force is to be measured for
the model when towed through the water.
Calibration:
The resistance transducer is calibrated with
weights. The weights are the standard for the
load cell calibration and are a source of error,
which depends on the quality of the standard.
The weights have a certificate that certifies
their calibration to a certain class. The tolerance for the individual weights used is certified
to be 0.005%. The calibration is performed
from 0 to 8 kg with an increment of 0.5 kg. The
bias error arising from the tolerance of the
calibration weights, BRx1, is calculated as the
accuracy of the weights, times the resistance
measured according to Eq. (2-20).

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

BRx1 = accuracy of weights Rx =

(2-20)

0.00005 41.791 = 0.00209 N

Data acquisition:
The data from the calibration tabulated in
Table 2.4 shows the mass/volt relation. From
these values the SEE can be calculated with Eq.
(2-13) to SEE=0.0853 resulting in a bias for the
curve fit to be BRx2=0.1706 N.
Table 2.4 Resistance transducer calibration.
Output (Volt)
4.930
4.556
4.157
3.767
3.373
2.972
2.595
2.200
1.820
1.430
1.040
0.644
0.262
-0.121
-0.530
-0.919
-1.303

Mass (kg)
0.000
0.500
1.000
1.500
2.000
2.500
3.000
3.500
4.000
4.500
5.000
5.500
6.000
6.500
7.000
7.500
8.000

Force (N)
0.000
4.905
9.810
14.715
19.620
24.525
29.430
34.335
39.240
44.145
49.050
53.955
58.860
63.765
68.670
73.575
78.480

R=62.089-Volt12.582
The third error is manifest in the load cell
misalignment, i.e., difference in orientation
between calibration and test condition. This
bias limit is estimated to be 0.25 degrees and
will effect the measured resistance as
B Rx 3=R x -(cos 0.25 Rx ) =
41.791 ( 1 cos 0.25 o ) = 0.00040 N

(2-21)

Resistance data is acquired by an AD converter, which normally has an error of 1 bit out

7.5-02
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Page 9 of 17
Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

of AD accuracy of 12 bits. AD conversion bias

error in voltage shall be given by AD converter
error in bit multiplied by AD range (-10 volts
to 10 volts) divided by AD accuracy. This voltage can be translated into Newton by using the
slope value of calibration.
BRx 4=

1 20
12.582 = 0.0614 N
212

(2-22)

Data reduction:
The transducer is fitted in the middle of a
special rod, which connects the model to the
carriage and tows the model. During the resistance tests the running trim and sinkage of the
model result in an inclination of the towing
force compared to the calibration which is expressed as a bias limit BRx5. The mean running
trim fore and aft are measured to be Tf=4.22
mm and Ta=8.34 mm. If the towing force is
applied in Lpp/2 the sinkage + trim in the towing point Ttp can be calculated as
Ttp=(Tf+Ta)/2=6.28 mm. The rod used for
towing the model is 500 mm long and therefore
the inclination of the towing force will be arcsin(6.28/500)=0.72 degrees compared to the
calm water level. The bias limit can then be
computed as

B Rx 5=R x - cos 0.72 o R x =

41.791( 1 cos 0.72 o ) = 0.0033 N

(2-23)

This error can be corrected for during the

measurements if the angle in the rod is measured. If the transducer is mounted directly to
the carriage and is constructed to take loads
only in the x-direction this error will be eliminated.

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7.5-02
-02-02
Page 10 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

The total bias limit in resistance is obtained by the root sum square of the four
bias
components
considered
BRx
=
(0.002092+0.17062+0.000402+0.06142+
+0.00332) = 0.1814 N
corresponding to 0.43 % of the mean resistance
of 41.791 N.
2.3.1.4 Temperature/Density/Viscosity
Temperature
Calibration:
The thermometer is calibrated by the manufacturer with a guaranteed accuracy of 0.30
degrees within the interval -5 to +50 degrees.
The bias error limit associated with temperature measurement is Bt=0.3 degrees corresponding to 2 % of the nominal temperature of
15 degrees.
Density
Calibration:
The density-temperature relationship (table)
according to the ITTC Procedure 7.5-02-01-03
Rev 00 Density and Viscosity of Water for
g=9.81 can be expressed as:

=1000.1 + 0.0552t - 0.0077t2 + 0.00004t3

2

= 0.0552 0.0154t o + 0.000120t o (2-25)

t

Using Eq. (2-25) with t=15 degrees and

Bt=0.3 degrees the bias B1 can be calculated
according to:

B 1 =

Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

B o = 0.1488 0.3 = 0.04464 kg/m3

t o t
(2-26)

Data reduction:
The error introduced when converting the
temperature to a density (table lookup) can be
calculated as two times the SEE of the curve fit
to the density/temperature values for the whole
temperature range. Comparing the tabulated
values with the calculated values (Eq. 2-24) the
bias error B2 can be calculated as B2=0.070
kg/m3.
Conceptual:
The nominal density according to the ITTC78 method is =1000. Using this method introduces a bias limit as the difference between
(15 degrees) = 999.34 and = 1000 such as
B3 = 1000.0-999.345 = 0.655 kg/m3 corresponding to 0.0655% of the density.
The bias for can then be calculated according to:
B =

(B ) + (B ) + (B )
2

= (0.1488 0.3) 2 + 0.070 2 + 0.6552

= 0.660 kg/m3

(2-27)

The bias limit for density is thus B=0.660

(2-24)
kg/m3 corresponding to 0.066 % of = 1000. If
using the density value determined by the temperature, the bias limit B3 will be eliminated.
Viscosity
Calibration:
The viscosity-temperature relationship for
fresh water adopted by ITTC Procedure7.5-02-

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7.5-02
-02-02
Page 11 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

01-03 Density and Viscosity of Water can be

calculated as

= ((0.000585(t 12.0) 0.03361)

(t 12.0) + 1.2350)10 6
= (0.000585t 2 0.04765t o + 1.72256)10 6
(2-28)
Partial derivative of Eq. (2-28) is

= (0.00117t 0.04765)10 6
T

B 1 =

2.3.1.5 Skin Frictional Resistance Coefficient

The skin frictional resistance coefficient is
calculated through the ITTC-1957 skin friction
line

0.075
VL
(log 10
2) 2

CF =

Bt = 0.030110 6 0.3 = 0.009010 6 m 2 /s

o
t
(2-30)

With these results the total bias limit can be

calculated as
B =

(B1)2 + (B 2)2

(2-31)

The bias limit associated with fresh water

viscosity due to temperature measurement and

(2-32)

Bias errors in skin friction calculation may

be traced back to errors in model length, speed
and viscosity. Bias limit associated with CF can
be a found as

(B )

Data reduction:
For a nominal temperature of 15.0 degrees
this formula results in =1.13944 10-6 m2/s.
Meanwhile the fresh water kinematic viscosity
according to the table in ITTC Procedure 7.502-01-03 for 15.0 degrees is equal to
=1.13902 10-6 m2/s. Using this method introduces a bias error due to the difference between
(15.0)= 1.139435 10-6 m2/s and =1.139020
10-6 m2/s such as B2= -4.15 10-10 m2/s.

Revision
01

viscosity calculation method is thus B= 9.04

10-9 m/s corresponding to 0.793 % of the kinematic viscosity.

(2-29)

Using Eq. (2-29) with T=15 degrees and

BT=0.3 degrees the bias B1 can be calculated
according to:

Effective Date
2002

CF

C
C

= F BV + F B L
V
L

+ F B

(2-33)

partial derivatives of Eq. (2-33) by model

speed, model length and viscosity are

C F
2
1
= 0.075
VL

V ln 10
V
2) 3
( Log

(2-34)

C F
2
1
= 0.075
VL
L

L ln 10
2) 3
( Log

(2-35)

ITTC Recommended
Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 12 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

form factor has for the time being and for indicative purposes been assumed to be 0.02,
equal to 10% of k or 1.66% of 1+k.

C F
2
1
= 0.075
VL

ln 10

2) 3
( Log

(2-36)

2.3.1.7 Total Bias Limit- Total Resistance Coefficient

By substituting BV=0.0036 m/s, BL=0.002

m, B=-9.04 10-9 m2/s, bias limits associated
with CF in model scale is BCF=4.258 10-6 corresponding to 0.142 % of the nominal value of
CF= 2.990 10-3.

In order to calculate the total bias and precision limits the partial derivatives have to be
calculated using input values of Rx=41.791 N,
g=9.81 m/s2, =1000 kg/m3, S=7.60 m2 and
V=1.7033 m/s.

2.3.1.6 Form Factor

Rx 1
C T
4
=
2 = 4.988 10
2
S
0.5 V S

(2-38)

CT
Rx 2
=
= 0.00445
V
0.5 S V 3

(2-39)

C T
1
=
= 9.07 10 5
2
Rx 0.5 V S

(2-40)

The recommended method for the experimental evaluation of the form-factor is that
proposed by Prohaska. If the wave-resistance
component in a low speed region (say 0.1 < Fr
<0.2) is assumed to be a function of Fr 4 , the
4

straight-line plot of CT/CF versus Fr / C F will

intersect the ordinate (Fr =0) at (1+k), enabling
the form factor to be determined.
hence
(1 + k ) =

CT
at low Froude numbers
CF

(2-37)

In the case of a bulbous bow near the water

surface these assumptions may not be valid and
care should be taken in the interpretation of the
results.
The bias limit B(1+k) can be determined
from the data reduction Eq. (2-37). The determination of the precision limit requires about
15 set of tests for several speeds. As there was
no example data available, the uncertainty in

Rx
C T
=

0.5V 2 S

1
2

= 3.791 10 6

(2-41)

The total bias limit can then be calculated

according to Eq. (2-8) as
BCT = 2.3296 10 -5
corresponding to 0.615% of the total resistance
coefficient CT=3.791 10-3.
2.3.1.8 Total Bias Limit- Residuary Resistance
Coefficient
Residuary resistance can be obtained from
Eq. (2-3) as

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

C R = CT (1 + k )C F

(2-42)

The bias limit of residuary resistance coefficient can be calculated according to

(B )

CR

C
C

= R BCT + R Bk

k
CT

C
+ R BCF

C F

(2-43)

partial derivatives of Eq.(2-42):

C R
=1
CT
C R
= C F = 0.00299
k
C R
= (1 + k ) = 1.2
C F

(2-44)
(2-45)
(2-46)

by using Eq. (2-43):

(1 2.3311 10 ) + ( 0.00299 0.02)

( 1.200 4.258 10 )
5 2

BC R =

Effective Date
2002

(2-47)
The total bias limit associated with residuary resistance coefficient is 6.438 10-5 corresponding to 31.72 % of the nominal value of
CR=0.203 10-3.
Precision Limit

Revision
01

In order to establish the precision limits, the

standard deviation for a number of tests, with
the model removed and reinstalled between
each set of measurements, must be determined.
In this example 5 sets of testing (A-E) with 3
speed measurements in each set have been performed giving totally 15 test points. This is the
best way to include random errors in the set-up
such as model misalignment, trim, heel etc.
As resistance is highly dependent on viscosity, the resistance values measured have to be
corrected to the same temperature. For a single
towing tank the resistance values can preferably be corrected to the mean temperature of the
tests in order not to make too large a correction. If the results are to be compared to results
from other facilities all the resistance values
must be corrected to the same temperature. In
the present case the total resistance coefficient
for the measured resistance and speed are corrected to the temperature of 15 degrees centigrade, according to the ITTC-78 method, by
the following:
The residual resistance CR, which is considered temperature independent, is calculated by

6 2

= 6.438 10

2.3.2

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 13 of 17

C R = CTTm - C FTm (1 + k )

(2-48)

where index Tm= measured temperature (compare also Eq. (2-3)).

CT for 15 degrees is then calculated from:
CT15 deg = C R + C F15 deg (1 + k )

(2-49)

By combining equation Eq. (2-48) and Eq.

(2-49) CT can be calculated as in Eq. (2-1).

ITTC Recommended
Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 14 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

Table 2.5 Standard deviation of CT and CR.

Series
/run

A1
A2
A3
B1
B2
B3
C1
C2
C3
D1
D2
D3
E1
E2
E3
MEAN
SDev

Measured values

Rx
(N)
41.713
41.352
41.564
41.365
41.763
41.742
41.744
42.007
41.938
41.482
41.646
41.556
41.577
41.577
41.736

V
(m/s)
1.702
1.702
1.702
1.703
1.705
1.705
1.702
1.705
1.703
1.703
1.705
1.703
1.703
1.703
1.703

Temp
(deg)
16.0
16.0
16.0
15.9
15.9
15.9
16.0
16.0
16.0
14.9
14.9
14.9
16.1
16.1
16.1

CT
1000
3.789
3.757
3.776
3.753
3.781
3.779
3.792
3.803
3.805
3.764
3.770
3.771
3.773
3.773
3.787

Nominal
speed
/temp
Eq.(2-1)
CT
1000
3.806
3.773
3.792
3.768
3.795
3.793
3.808
3.819
3.822
3.762
3.768
3.769
3.790
3.790
3.806
3.791
0.0192

Eq.(2-3)
CR
1000
0.217
0.185
0.204
0.180
0.208
0.206
0.220
0.232
0.234
0.175
0.181
0.181
0.203
0.203
0.217
0.203
0.0192

In the above table the total resistance coefficient is calculated for each run, using the
measured resistance and speed. This corrects
the measured resistance to the nominal speed
by the assumption that the resistance is proportional to V2. For small deviations in speed this
assumption is considered accurate.

The precision limit for the mean value of 15

runs is calculated as

The mean value over 15 runs for CT15deg

(corrected to nominal speed and temperature) is
calculated as CT = 3.791 10 3 as shown in table
2.5. With Eq. (2-2), using the nominal values
for speed, density and wetted surface, the corrected, mean resistance can be recalculated to
Rx = 41.791 N .

according to Eq. (2-10) and corresponding to

0.26% of CT. For a single run the precision
limit is calculated as

PCT =

K SDevCT
M

2 0.0192 10 3
=
= 0.00989 10 3
15
(2-50)

PCT = K SDevCT = 2 0.0192 10 3 = 0.0383 10 3

(2-51)
according to Eq. (2-11) and corresponding to
1.01 % of CT.

ITTC Recommended
Procedures

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 15 of 17

Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

The residual resistance coefficient can also

be calculated as shown in table 2.5. The precision limit for the mean value of 15 runs is calculated as
PCR =

2 0.0192 10 3
=
= 0.00989 10 3
15
(2-52)

according to Eq. (2-10) and corresponding to

4.87% of CR. For a single run the precision
limit is calculated as
PCR = K SDevCR = 2 0.0192 10 3 = 0.0383 10 3
(2-53)
according to Eq. (2-11) and corresponding to
18.88 % of CR.
2.3.3

Revision
01

Correspondingly the total uncertainty for a single run can be calculated as

(U ) = ((B ) + (P ) ) =
(0.02331 + 0.0383 ) 10 = 0.04483 10
2

CT

K SDevC R

Effective Date
2002

CT

1
2

CT

1
2

(2-55)
which is 1.18% of CT.
The total uncertainty for CR for the mean
value of 15 runs can similarly be calculated as

(U ) = ((B ) + (P ) ) =
(0.06438 + 0.00989 ) 10
2

CR

CR

1
2

CR

1
2

= 0.06514 10 3
(2-56)

which is corresponding to 32.09% of CR.

Correspondingly the total uncertainty for a
single run can be calculated as

Total Uncertainties

Combining the precision limits for multiple

and single tests with the bias limits the total
uncertainty can be calculated according to Eq.
(2-5) and Eq. (2-6).

(U ) = ((B ) + (P ) ) =
(0.06438 + 0.0383 ) 10 = 0.07493 10
2

CR

CR

1
2

CR
2

1
2

(2-57)

The total uncertainty for CT for the mean

value of 15 runs will then be

which is 36.91% of CR.

(U ) = ((B ) + (P ) ) =
(0.02331 + 0.00989 ) 10

As can be seen from the values above the

uncertainty will decrease if it is calculated for
the mean value of 15 tests compared to the
single run value. This is also displayed in Figure 2.2 where the bias is constant regardless of
the number of tests while the precision and
total uncertainty are decreasing with increasing
number of repetitions.

CT

CT

1
2

CT

1
2

= 0.02532 10 3
(2-54)

which is corresponding to 0.67% of CT.

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

% OF CT

TOTAL UNCERTAINTY
BIAS LIMIT

Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

tively contribute too 47% and 50% of the total

bias limit. The uncertainty in speed consists of
98% of the uncertainty in pulse count Bc. This
uncertainty consists of over 80% of the bias
limits Bc2 and Bc3. The bias limit in resistance
consists of almost 100% of the uncertainty in
acquisition, Rx2 and Rx4. It is therefore most
important to:

1.5

0.5

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 16 of 17

PRECISION LIMIT

6
8
10
NUMBER OF TESTS

12

14

16

Figure 2.2 Bias, precision and total uncertainty.

Expressed in relative numbers the bias for
CT represents only 27% percent of the total
uncertainty for a single run but as much as 85%
of the total uncertainty for the mean value of 15
tests. The bias for CR represents 74% of the
total uncertainty for a single run and 98% of
the total uncertainty for the mean value of 15
tests.
By comparing the bias and precision limits
and the uncertainties, the relative contribution
of each term can be calculated. This makes it
possible to determine where an upgrade in the
measurement system has the largest effect.
The bias and precision limits and the uncertainties for the total resistance coefficient are
summarised in Table 2.6 where the relative
contribution of each term is calculated. This
makes it possible to determine where an upgrade in the measurement system has the largest effect. If considering the total resistance
coefficient in this example, the most effective
would therefore be to improve the speed and
resistance measurement systems as they respec-

1. Upgrade the resistance measurement system

by changing the resistance transducer to a
transducer with better linearity (Reduction
of error BRx2 ).
2. Upgrade the data acquisition cycle in the
speed measurement system (Reduction of
error Bc2 and Bc3 ).
Table 2.6 Error contributions to total uncertainty.
Term
Model geometry (m2)
BS1 (m2)
BS2 (m2)
BS (m2)
Model speed (m/s)
Bc1 (bit)
Bc2 (bit)
Bc3 (bit)
Bc4 (bit)
Bc (bit)

Value
7.600
3.666E-03
6.189E-03
7.193E-03

Percentage values
25.97 % of BS2
74.03 % of BS2
0.09 % of S

1.703
1.000
1.500
1.500
0.250
2.358

17.98
40.45
40.45
1.12
0.21

% of Bc2
% of Bc2
% of Bc2
% of Bc2
% of c=1138

BD (m)
Bt (s)

1.150E-04
1.025E-05

0.03
0.01

% of D=0.381
% of t =0.1 s

VcBc (m/s)
VDBD (m/s)
VtBt (m/s)
BV (m/s)

3.529E-03 97.69 % of BV2

5.141E-04 2.07 % of BV2
-1.746E-04 0.24 % of BV2
3.570E-03 0.21 % of V

Model resistance (N)

BRx1 (N)
BRx2 (N)
BRx3 (N)
BRx4 (N)
BRx5 (N)
BRx (N)

41.791
2.090E-03 0.01 % of BRx2
1.706E-01 88.48 % of BRx2
3.978E-04 0.00 % of BRx2
-6.143E-02 11.47 % of BRx2
3.296E-03 0.03 % of BRx2
1.814E-01 0.43 % of Rx

Model Density (kg/m3)

1000.000

ITTC Recommended
Procedures
Resistance
Uncertainty Analysis,
Example for Resistance Test

Temperature (deg)
BT (deg)
B1 (kg/m3)
B2 (kg/m3)
B3 (kg/m3)
B (kg/m3)

15.000
0.300
2.00 % of 15 deg
-4.464E-02 0.46 % of 2
7.002E-02 1.12 % of 2
6.553E-01 98.42 % of 2
6.605E-01 0.07 % of

Total Resistance Coefficient 3.791E-03

-3.588E-06 2.37 % of BCT2
CTSBS
-1.589E-05 46.56 % of BCT2
CTVBV
CT
1.646E-05 49.92 % of BCT2
RxBRx
-2.504E-06 1.16 % of BCT2
CTB
BCT
PCT (S)
PCT (M)
UCT (S)
UCT (M)

2.329E-05
3.829E-05
9.886E-06
4.482E-05
2.530E-05

Residual Resist. Coefficient

CRCTBCT
CRkBk
CRCFBCF

2.030E-04
2.329E-05 13.09 % of BCR2
-5.980E-05 86.28 % of BCR2
-5.109E-06 4.81 % of BCR2

BCR
PCR (S)
PCR (M)
UCR (S)
UCR (M)

6.438E-05
3.832E-05
9.895E-06
7.492E-05
6.513E-05

r
where i =

0.61
1.01
0.26
1.18
0.67

31.71
18.88
4.87
36.91
32.09

% of CT
% of CT
% of CT
% of CT
% of CT

% of CR
% of CR
% of CR
% of CR
% of CR

r
i

3. REFERENCES

Coleman, H.W. and Steele, W.G., 1999, Experimentation and Uncertainty Analysis for

7.5-02
-02-02
Page 17 of 17
Effective Date
2002

Revision
01

Engineers, 2nd Edition, John Wiley & Sons,

Inc., New York, NY.
ITTC, 1999a, Uncertainty Analysis in EFD,
Uncertainty Assessment Methodology, 22nd
International Towing Tank Conference,
Seoul/Shanghai, ITTC Recommended Procedures, Procedure 7.5-02-01-01
ITTC, 1999b, Uncertainty Analysis in EFD,
Guidelines for Towing Tank Tests, 22nd International
Towing
Tank
Conference,
Seoul/Shanghai, ITTC Recommended Procedures , Procedure 7.5-02-01-02
ITTC, 1999c, Density and Viscosity of Water, 22nd International Towing Tank Conference, Seoul/Shanghai, ITTC Recommended
Procedures , Procedure 7.5-02-01-03
ITTC, 1999d, Uncertainty Analysis, Example
for Resistance Test, 22nd International Towing Tank Conference, Seoul/Shanghai, ITTC
Recommended Procedures , Procedure 7.5-0202-02
4.9-03-02-02, Rev 00.
ITTC, 2002, Ship Models, 23rd International
Towing Tank Conference, Venice, ITTC Recommended Procedures , Procedure 7.5-01-0101, Rev 01.