Introduction
Most leisure yachts are developed according to the ISO 12215-5 standard. Since the 2019 update, this standard allows engineers to use Finite Element Analysis (FEA/FEM) to evaluate loadbearing structures. This enables a more accurate analysis of structural behavior, often resulting in material and weight savings when compared to traditional analytical design methods.
At Solico, FEM is routinely used to optimize structural components of composite yachts. While this approach offers clear performance advantages through weight reduction, it also involves higher engineering effort and cost. To make informed design and business decisions, it’s essential to understand the balance between this added engineering effort and the resulting performance gain.
Objective:
To determine how much weight can be saved by optimizing an analytically designed yacht structure through FEM-based design, and to evaluate under which conditions the use of FEM provides the most added value.
Assignment Scope:
Re-engineer a yacht that was developed in either technique (analytical- and FEM), to determine the weight difference and optimisation potential.
Deliverables:
Generate a report reflecting clearly the potential weight saving, as well as a brief marketable paper, ready for publishing.
About Solico:
Founded over 30 years ago, Solico Engineering is amongst the largest independent composite structural engineering companies globally, and proudly supports market leading composites manufacturers across a broad spectrum of Maritime, Defence, Civil & Architecture and Industrial markets. Always independent, and focused on smart, fit for purpose design, we commit to add value to every project we engineer.
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