Files
Abstract
Design of naval vessels goes through (rigorous) preliminary design, critical design, and detailed design phases. Although experience is essential for designers and engineers during ship upgrade, the use of block diagrams and charts to represent the design challenges in maritime application often results in misconceptions, with the required outcome not fully realised. 3D modelling technique is not a novel approach in ship design and retrofit; however, the integration of 3D modelling and visualisation is always more favourable when presenting complex design changes. These methods aid in observing technical limitations that might otherwise be obscure. The use of physics-based 3D modelling is a continuously growing hybrid modelling technique that blends particle effects with ship design. These procedures allow for a holistic representation of the asset in its natural environment and under predictable sets of conditions. The purpose of this research is to illustrate how 3D modelling can accurately be used to evaluate the performance of a surface ship under simulated working conditions. Serials and protocols will be constructed based on mock-up designs of systems in a marine environment. Aspects related to ship/system animation will be used to show the practice of ship upgrade and acceptance trials. The use of particle physics addons and extensions related to water and weather effects will be evaluated based on their ability to translate into real-life equivalent. The research proceedings will require the use of 3D creation suite (Blender, 3DS Max) and CAD (Fusion 360) software to recreate exiting naval vessels fitted with various configuration and loadouts of equipment. Animation pipelines will be used in support of the final product to enable practical planning for the transition from simulation-based tests to acceptance trials. Preliminary results depicting the integration of deck equipment onboard a vessel highlight the limitations of traditional techniques in accessing the principal dimensions relative to a person compared to 3D modelling. The use of 3D tools allows for orbital view of the model and unlimited close-up to the subject matter. The unconditional use of simulated weather effects allows for a higher order level of reporting technical findings that is simply not possible with written reports. Furthermore, the portrayal of sea trials using physics-based modelling techniques is a digital setting to work, which dramatically lends itself towards accurate technical assessment during design phases. The outcome of this study will determine the effectiveness of 3D modelling on design changes and decision making. Further evaluation regarding setting up standards and their uses will help in analysing the best approach to assess 3D representations on various maritime applications. The overarching endeavour is oriented towards streamlining a maritime project from pilot to production using cotemporary techniques in ship design.