Measurement and analysis of sleep disturbance aboard the SA Agulhas II

Abstract

Passenger comfort aboard the SA Agulhas II Polar Supply and Research Vessel has been studied by the Sound and Vibration Research Group of Stellenbosch University’s Department of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering since 2014. For this purpose whole-body vibration has been measured and analysed in accordance with ISO 2631-1. These measurements were recorded using an array of accelerometers installed at various locations in the vessel. In conjunction with these vibration measurements passenger questionnaires have been used to record the crew’s subjective response to wave slamming. A recent study has shown that high levels of reported passenger discomfort may be due to sleep disturbance caused by slamming events. The current study adds to the present level of understanding into the effect of slamming on passenger comfort by including noise measurements in sleeping quarters and work areas also for recumbent passengers. Passenger discomfort, vibration measurements and noise measurements were analysed statistically to determine the effect of noise on passenger comfort in relation to the previously studied vibration metrics. - Abstract as displayed in the - Abstract booklet. The presentation on the day may differ from the - Abstract.