Onboard Stability Software Release - Seagoing Paramarine
10 July 2003 11:44
Seagoing Paramarine Onboard Stability Software
Spring 2003 marked the release of Seagoing Paramarine, part of the MerIT software suite created and distributed by GRC Ltd, Hampshire, UK. It is an onboard stability calculation package intended for surface naval vessels, developed closely with the UK MoD. Laptop based versions are now onboard Royal Navy frigates and destroyers, expansion to other UK warships and to onboard local area networks is proposed in the near-term. Training and simulation can also be centred on Seagoing Paramarine, whether at sea or in shore-side facilities.
Many advantages are created by implementing such a system onboard naval vessels. Understanding of ship conditions (intact or damage) by the crew is greatly enhanced, results displayed visually are calculated directly from the ship condition. A wizard is used to aid the crew systematically through each analysis type, it can be customised to suit particular requirements imposed by the vessel or to simplify otherwise technically complex procedures. Designed specifically with crewmembers in mind, it is possible to achieve a high level of analysis without the need for naval architecture expertise.
Use of the package centres around creating a loading condition, based on a 3D computer model of the ship. Variable loads such as tank states and stores are updated daily by the crew using an interactive deck plan or form-style data entry tables. Hydrostatics can be checked to ensure accuracy by comparing results against observed draught marks. A correction weight and location can be implemented if necessary to account for growth.
As well as results displayed in tables they are also shown pictorially or graphically if appropriate. An interactive 3D view can be used to display, amongst other things, waterplanes and locations of variable loads from the loading condition.
The up-to-date loading condition of the vessel means that in an emergency the ship status can be analysed without delay. Stability of the vessel can be assessed in a grounded or damaged state. After initial assessment, the crew can then calculate the effects on stability of the worst-case scenario should flooding progress to adjacent compartments, and the effects of pumping or counter flooding activities.
In case of grounding, the loads exerted on the hull can be determined. The locations of the grounding loads and the grounded waterplane can be viewed in the 3D view of the vessel on screen. Changes of the tide can be assessed to find the point at which the vessel would float free, or the point at which acceptable stability would be lost. Again, alterations to the fluid load can be simulated before being implemented.
The direct calculation approach of Seagoing Paramarine is a great improvement over previous methods employed. Accurate and reliable results are produced, applicable to daily operations, but which also which may prove crucial to the safety of the ship. The scope of Seagoing continues to develop, structural analysis in damaged state being one major component being studied for future implementation.
Further information and contact details can be found on the GRC website.
For more information on this company:
GRC - Ship Design and Modelling Software
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