[quink99]

There are a couple of formulas which factor the viscosity of the surrounding water in (counteraction). But I think, we should keep things simple. For example just determine that a windforce with 12m/s will result a drift of the boat (independent of the boat's heading in relation to the wind vector) of, lets say: 1m/min. Is this too much? Is it too little? I depend on the experience of real-life skippers. They can estimate the effect best. In the same way, the ocean current could be considered.

The aim is not to create a finite element simulation but the objective factors have an influence on dead reckoning.

@TDW: nice to have a pro on board!! I can't rate what modifying .exe means - but it sounds to be hard work. So is it principally possible to consider such "outer" forces?
There are lifeboats in SH5 - how are they moved/propelled? Maybe a function similar to this can solve the problem.

Hope to get some good news...

Silent Marshal,

From both a navigational and a hydrodynamic standpoint there are several complex interreactions at play in determining the effect of wind and current on a vessel when they act simultaneously.

WIND 1) The flat plate surface area above the waterline and the surface area below the water line.
2) The duration, intensity, direction, and rate of change of the wind over time.
3) The course and speed of the vessel in relation to that wind.

CURRENTS - Much simpler. Not allowing for the wind, the direction, the speed, and the rate of change in both direction and velocity of the current, the vessel's movement would be the same as the current's.

The interreaction between the two elements makes the problem considerably more challenging but if you happen to have some time available on the neighborhood Cray computer you could probably make a pretty cool navigation MOD.

Good luck!