ABSTRACT
Ship impact load cases are not simple problems, due to many complex variables involved. In one case, a heavy weight, high stiffness object collides with a stiff element-a bridge pier made of concrete or masonry. In other case the object collides with a comparably soft object-protective elements or a sheet pile wall. This issue has been examined in detail by the German Federal Institute for Hydraulic Engineering. In DIN Fachbericht 101 (2003) the concept of a realistic approach to the determination of shock loads based on a probabilistic safety concept is shown. Hence the basic parameters for a both safe and economical consideration of ship impact have been provided.
