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The current study identifies the critical design considerations for the universal joint of a cutter suction dredger. The cutter suction dredger is modelled as a hybrid two subsystems consisting of hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-loop (SIL). HIL, consisting of Dredge hull, spud and soil embedment, is modelled experimentally. System identification is carried out, and a single degree of freedom (SDOF) system is determined for HIL. The identified dynamic parameters are interfaced with the SIL. SIL consisting of the cutter shaft is modelled numerically. The primary and secondary shaft of the cutter shaft is coupled using springs to emulate the universal joint. A sensitivity analysis of the acceleration amplification based on the spud location relative to the hull is carried out. It is observed that the spud position relative to the hull has less influence on the acceleration amplification. A soft universal joint produces a higher response transmitted to the Dredge hull. Further, the influence of the universal joint on the fatigue life of the shaft is analyzed. The results from the fatigue analysis indicate that higher coupling stiffness reduces the fatigue life of the cutter shaft. Therefore, while designing the universal joint, both the impulsive and the fatigue loading must be considered.

来源平台：JOURNAL OF OCEAN ENGINEERING AND MARINE ENERGY