correctly set up but it does not inherently aid in the design process. Structural layouts must first be conceptualised based on experience and fast preliminary calculations, such as hand-calcs. Only after defining the yacht’s scantlings, structural layout, and panel arrangement can FEA validate the assumptions and refine the design.
How does FEA work? FEM breaks down large, complex problems – such as verifying the structural layout of a yacht – into smaller, more manageable calculations. This is achieved by dividing the geometry into a computational mesh. The process segments the yacht into numerous small elements (finite elements), making it easier to calculate deformations under applied loads. In essence, this methodology enables
precise analysis of structural response to loads and constraints in any part of the yacht, providing data on stress, strain, natural vibration frequencies, and other key material properties. This allows designers to refine and optimise structural components to achieve the required strength and stiffness.
At AMS, this methodology is seamlessly
integrated into our design workflow, ensuring structural efficiency and safety before production even begins.
The AMS workflow: how FEA- based design is structured At AMS, we verify all the yachts we design using FEA. Our typical workflow follows this structured process:
Preliminary Structural Sizing We begin with an initial structural definition, determining the hull structure’s geometry based on regulations, shipyard requirements, and our experience. This phase relies on hand-calcs and expertise. If executed correctly, the subsequent FEA validation will be swift. Otherwise, adjustments to the FE model’s mesh will be required – an extremely time- consuming task
Issuing Hull Lamination Drawings At this stage, the lamination drawings for the hull are usually issued (excluding localised reinforcements, which are added later), allowing the shipyard to begin work in advance, since the FEA results will primarily influence the internal
structures and deck, leaving the hull mostly unchanged except for some local reinforcements.
3D Modelling and FE Model Development Once the hull and deck structures are modelled in 3D, we develop the FE model for the entire yacht. A typical FE model consists of around 500,000 nodes and 400,000 elements, ensuring that every area, reinforcement, and detail is accurately represented.
FEA Validation and Refinement This preliminary structural sizing is then validated and refined using FEA to optimise structural efficiency. The yacht is analysed as initially designed.
•If adjustments are needed, material properties can be tuned within the
heights—mesh modifications are necessary, significantly increasing workload and time.
•If everything is correctly dimensioned, the engineering phase is completed,
and we move on to detailed drawings
•If geometrical modifications are required—such as adjusting structural
FE model (a relatively quick process) �
First the hull and deck structures are modelled in 3D, then an FEA model is developed for the entire yacht SEAHORSE 67
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