3D modelling in naval architecture

Advantages of 3D modelling in naval architecture

In France, the shipbuilding sector encompasses a wide variety of vessels, including fishing boats, sailing yachts, scientific and military vessels, and ocean liners. These vessels are meticulously designed by naval engineers using CAD software, guaranteeing suitable and reliable ship structures. Find out more about Siemens marine engineering solutions such as NX CAD and NX CAM:

3D visualisation and simulation in shipbuilding

Progress in new technologies allows naval engineers to get involved in immersive design thanks to the following tools: 

• Interactive 3D visualisation (NX VR for Marine): rapid modelling and optimised adjustments thanks to a library and history to speed up naval design. This technology enables naval engineers and architects to design vessels more efficiently, while integrating innovative materials. It facilitates the design and construction of boats and ships, reducing project costs and timescales while guaranteeing optimum performances.
   
• Virtual prototyping and 3D simulation: the Siemens Simcenter™ 3D simulation system enables naval engineers and architects to accurately simulate a project, particularly through the intervention of CAE. It incorporates analysis options for fluids, air handling system, fuel, water and piping. These tools save real time and money, reducing the test cycle by 20%.
   
• HVAC modelling: By modelling complex systems such as fluid and air management, CAD ensures that the vessel is perfectly integrated into the overall design.

 

Data management and multidisciplinary design in the naval sector

The complex nature of the shipbuilding industry implies the need for coordination between teams of engineers to ensure the most efficient resolution of any errors.

• Data management and advanced modelling: advanced volume and surface modelling tools are essential for the detailed representation of naval structures and components. Coupled with Teamcenter, CAD software such as Siemens NX possesses a new pillar of data management to streamline highly complex vessels' operations.
   
• Coverage of vessels' lifecycle stages: From design to production, all stages of a naval project are interconnected, enabling engineers and architects to validate and simulate performances early in the workflow, while reducing errors, particularly in hydrostatic and power calculations.
   
• A design environment shared between different business modules: Using a PLM enables all specialist engineers and architects to work together on a project. They can work simultaneously on the steel structure, machinery, piping, HVAC system and electrical wiring. This ensures that the vessel is compatible with industrial standards. 

Energy optimisation and aesthetics in the shipbuilding industry

Fuel economy and energy efficiency 

The design of modern ships is becoming increasingly complex. 3D modelling offers solutions to these new challenges in terms of energy savings and cost. Here's what it can bring to your projects:

• Reduce fuel consumption: hydrodynamic optimisation and workflow automation increase energy efficiency by 30%.
   
• Optimisation of boat costs: the design of piping circuits and air handling systems requires in-depth research and detailed studies of the project plans. NX Siemens offers engineers the opportunity to design an architecture that takes fluids and air into account, thanks to its industry-specific modules.
  These tools are a real aid to naval architecture, helping to reduce design lead times and lower the costs involved in building ships and managing offshore projects.

 

Aesthetics in the shipbuilding industry

3D visualisation can be used to design luxury yachts and ocean liners, with careful attention paid to the choice of materials and interior design. It offers customers interactive demonstrations to visualise variants.

3D modelling, combined with systems such as Teamcenter, is revolutionising naval architecture by optimising performances, reducing errors and speeding up every stage of design and production right through to construction. The complexity of both ships and software means that all offshore designers need to be trained as engineers to be able to solve any engineering problem and carry out project assessments in terms of cost, safety and efficiency.