SHIP DECARBONISATION
& EEXI / EEDI

Our CFD technology can be used to enhance the energy efficiency through three primary mechanisms:

Design exploration and optimisation using a simulation driven approach

Large parts of the workflow are automated which reduces analysis time significantly. We can run around 50 calm water simulations per day, which coupled with the fact that CFD allows for rapid geometry changes, means that several design candidates can be evaluated in a small time frame. At its lowest level this makes it very fast to compare multiple prospective design. Changes can be manually implemented by the naval architects based upon the hydro results and the new design can be quickly evaluated. It is also possible to focus on a single element of the hull. For example, the performance gains from adding a bulbous bow can be determined and then compared to a number of different bulbs. At its highest level this allows fully automated optimisations to take place. The CFD simulation can be paired with an optimisation algorithm and a parametric model in an automated loop effectively exploring the whole design space.

Investigation of novel ideas and technologies implemented in a short time frame

Utilising our CFD technology removes the constraints of traditional model testing. Elaborate test rigs do not need to be devised and complicated scaling issues are no longer required as the energy saving devices can be modelled in full scale. The post processing capabilities of CFD are immense. Forces can be decomposed into the shear and pressure components, and quantified for the different surfaces. Pressure fields can be plotted and streamlines can be used to visualise the flow, allowing a far more detailed understanding of what is actually happening to be developed. Advanced visualising scenes allowing users to interact and explore the solution, viewing it from any perspective. These operations come together and form an environment in which new ideas can be tested and examined, with a very thorough understanding being developed so that they may be fully exploited.

A holistic, integrated design process

Ship design traditionally follows a design spiral approach, which is functional and logical yet can be restrictive and inefficient. It is made up of several steps, involving different teams, each using different tools and data sets.  New tools such as CFD, FEA and 1D system simulation software may be incorporated into this, leading to improvements, however the real advantage of these tools is that they facilitate a move to an integrated digital approach. Moving all the design processes into one single, centralized environment increases a projects efficiency and collaboration while driving innovation. This digital twin methodology can enhance a vessels energy efficiency by facilitating a multi-domain design space exploration.