Scenario 1 - Start from Scratch

In this scenario a typical merchant vessel configuration is assumed. The final surface is not yet available, so a rough surface describing only the parallel mid-body is created initially together with the main Reference Surface Objects (RSO).

First the main longitudinal members are created, such as:

• Shell plating

• Shell longitudinals

• Decks

• Longitudinal bulkheads

• Girders

• Stringers

Shell plating and longitudinals are generated using the interactive functions for this purpose. The inner structures can be made up to a certain detail level using automatic generation of panels on RSOs or using the Quick Panel functions. Further detailing and modifications are then made using the interactive functions for this purpose.

In this stage a check can be made to see if the required sectional modulus is achieved. If not, an iterative process is started in which the designer makes changes to the longitudinal material to obtain the desired sectional modulus.

When this is achieved, the transverse members are modelled, such as:

• Transverse bulkheads

• Webs

• Floors

At this stage, the design can be refined even further by going through the above procedure again. When the design fulfils all demands a first approval of the midship cross-section from the relevant classification society can be obtained.

Then a preliminary or final surface for the whole ship can be imported, and extension of structure is made into the fore and aft bodies of the ship.