Information models and functions for CIM in shipbuilding

In order to make significant progress in design and manufacturing systems, all industries must consider integration. This paper considers information models and functions for a computer integrated design and manufacturing system in shipbuilding. The authors propose the product model and several alterative functions for designing a ship's structure, and develop a “ship definition system for computer integrated design and manufacturing.” This system is called SODAS (System of Design and Assembly for Shipbuilding). An object-oriented concept is used to develop this system. In order to define a ship's structure, the authors propose the product models of “parts member” and “parts connection,” and the product models of “Room,” “Unit,” and “Module” are introduced to define the compartments, internal structures and intermediate products of a ship. Therefore, all information about a product from the design to the production stage is stored in the product model. As well as the product model, the “design function,” “cutting function,” and “virtual assembling function” are introduced. By using the design function, any type of ship's structure can be designed, and by using the cutting function, the design of a ship's structure can be cut into smaller elements. By using the virtual assembling function, a simulation of the manufacture of a ship's structure can be carried out.     

Ship inspection support system using a product model

 Recently, the significance of ship inspections has been increasingly recognized because sea pollution and safety problems are occurring more and more frequently. However, current ship inspections rely on the experience of the workers. Therefore, it is difficult to understand, and hence to improve, the state of ship inspections. In this paper, ship inspection is directed into three stages (plan, do, and check), and the configurations of a total system to support ship inspections are discussed. A prototype system for the “plan” and “do” stages is developed. This is realized by organizing the information that relates to inspection, and defining data models for damage and inspection states. Then the proposed system is integrated with a shipbuilding computer integrated manufacturing (CIM) system so that the ship's structural information can be used effectively. In addition, functions to calculate the damage-finding probability, and functions to generate information about damage and the inspection state are introduced. Therefore, in the planning stage, as inspector can execute a virtual ship inspection, and then the damage-finding probability of each hull part and oversight areas are calculated automatically. Further, by carrying this system into an inspection, an inspector can generate damage information and inspection information simply and easily. Some examples of the proposed system are shown at the end of the paper. Received: November 12, 2001 / Accepted: January 30, 2002     

Fuzzy logic based decision making system for collision avoidance of ocean navigation under critical collision conditions

This paper focuses on a fuzzy logic based intelligent decision making system that aims to improve the safety of marine vessels by avoiding collision situations. It can be implemented in a decision support system of an oceangoing vessel or included in the process of autonomous ocean navigation. Although Autonomous Guidance and Navigation (AGN) is meant to be an important part of future ocean navigation due to the associated cost reduction and improved maritime safety, intelligent decision making capabilities should be an integrated part of the future AGN system in order to improve autonomous ocean navigational facilities. In this study, the collision avoidance of the Target vessel with respect to the vessel domain of the Own vessel has been analyzed and input, and output fuzzy membership functions have been derived. The if–then rule based decision making process and the integrated novel fuzzy inference system are formulated and implemented on the MATLAB software platform. Simulation results are presented regarding several critical collision conditions where the Target vessel fails to take appropriate actions, as the “Give way” vessel to avoid collision situations. In these situations, the Own vessel is able to take critical actions to avoid collisions, even when being the “Stand on” vessel. Furthermore, all decision rules are formulated in accordance with the International Maritime Organization Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), 1972, to avoid conflicts that might occur during ocean navigation.     

Goal-based standards

The development of goal-based new ship construction standards is a new subject matter of high importance for IMO which has been included in the Organization’s strategic and long-term work plans and also in the work programme of its Maritime Safety Committee. This paper briefly describes the meaning of “goal-based” regulation in general and looks at its application to ship construction. The on-going work at IMO is presented, results achieved to date are explained and an outlook is given regarding the work still to be carried out.     

New method for ship finite element method preprocessing based on a 3D parametric technique

A new method for ship finite element method (FEM) preprocessing is presented as well as its program development. The method is applicable for all kinds of ships at different levels, such as a whole ship, cargo hold parts or detailed structures. The 3D parametric technique is used when creating ship structures, which improves the modeling efficiency greatly and makes the model easy to modify. A 3D geometric constraint solver is developed to solve the constraint system of the parametric model. A meshing procedure is presented to automatically convert the parametric structure model into a finite element model, by which high quality mesh is generated in the stress concentrated area. It also becomes possible to create finite element models for different levels from the same structure model. Using this method, the engineers avoid much of the complex and laborious work of FEM preprocessing, which consumes a very significant amount of time in finite element analysis, and can pay more attention to post-processing. This method has proved to be practical and highly efficient by several engineering trials. This work is sponsored by “Liaoning BaiQianWan Talents Program”.     

Market based framework for multiple AUVs cooperation

A“Market” based framework for multiple AUVs team is introduced in this paper. It is a distributed meta-level task allocation framwork. The formulation and the basic concepts of the “Market” such as “goods” and “price” are discussed first, then the basic algorithm of the “auction”. The loosely coupled v-MDTSP tasks are considered as an example of the task allocation mission. A multiple AUV team controller and a detailed algorithm are developed for such applications. The simulation results show that the controller has the advantages such as robustness and low complexity and it can achieve better optimization results than the classical central controller （ such as GA） in some tasks. And the comparison of two different local solvers also implies that we should get the reasonable task allocation even not using the high quality algorithm, which can considerably decrease the cooperation computation.     

Application of H∞ control in rudder/flap vector robust control of a ship＇s course

Given the uncertainty of parameters and the random nature of disturbances that effect a ships course, a robust course controller should be designed on the basis of rudder/flap vector control. This paper analyzes system uncertainty, and the choice of weighting functions is also discussed. When sea waves operate on a ship, the energy-concentrating frequency varies with the angle of encounter. For different angles of encounter, different weighting functions are designed. For the pole of a nominal model existing in an imaginary axis, the bilinear-transform method is used. The ＂2-Riccati＂ equation is adopted to solve the H∞ controller. A system simulation is given, and the results show that, compared with a PID controller, this system has higher course precision and more robust performance. This research has significant engineering value.     

Underwater acoustic imaging: image due to a specular reflector in the geometrical-acoustics limit

In underwater acoustic imaging, which is used to produce high-quality images in turbid waters, a specular reflector can produce a “pseudoimage” of the receiving array at the reflecting surface. Based on the “geometrical approximation” (which is similar to geometrical acoustics), formulae are derived for the size and shape of the pseudoimage for both flat and curved reflectors. For curved reflectors, described by two principal radii of curvature, the formulae also assume the “large-range approximation.” The formulae allow radii of curvature to be determined from an image. Also discussed briefly are some possible extensions and the role of nongeometrical effects.     

Configuration estimation method for preliminary cost of ships based on engineering bills of materials

Ships are complex engineering structures that are designed and built on the basis of technical experience. A shipowner will often be required to estimate the price of a new ship on the basis of the value of comparable ships identified in trade journals. Similarly, shipbuilders are often interested in estimating approximate costs during the tendering phase in order to determine whether a ship is likely to be competitive for a particular order. Thus, when designing a ship prior to having obtained a contract, one of the most important processes is the estimation of approximate costs, including materials, associated labor, and overhead. During this preliminary design phase, the design is temporary and subject to change based on variations in the shipowner’s requirements. Hence, quick and flexible responses are key during this period and an integral aspect of the competitive powers of the shipbuilder. Given this environment, we propose a “configuration estimation method.” Our method is based on the configuration design method that is widely used in three-dimensional (3D) computer aided design (CAD) systems. We assume that a product lifecycle management system is furnished and that the cost is then estimated via the configuration of the ship, using an engineering bill of materials (E-BOM). In referring to the E-BOM, we utilize technical parametric costs derived from similar ships built previously. Using the proposed method, it is possible to obtain an accurate list of materials from the quotation, as well as a detailed work assessment for labor costs and overhead rates, so that reliable cost estimates can be generated quickly and flexibly. To demonstrate the practical applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method, we implement the prototype of a shipbuilding configuration estimation system by using a Microsoft Structured Query Language database and an E-BOM from AVEVA Marine version 12.01, which is a representative CAD system for shipbuilding.     

Second-order sum-frequency wave diffraction by a truncated surface-piercing cylinder in bichromatic waves

This work considers the second-order sum-frequency diffraction problem for a stationary truncated surface-piercing circular cylinder in bichromatic waves. The solution method was based on a semianalytical formulation of the second-order sum-frequency diffraction potential. The boundary conditions were properly satisfied by introducing the “locked” and the “free” wave components of the nonlinear velocity potential. The method was validated by comparing the calculated results with numerical data previously reported by other authors. Particular attention was paid to the second-order sum-frequency heave forces and the change in the wave run-up configuration due to the existence of the lower fluid domain underneath the truncated cylinder.     

Investigations of vehicle securing without lashings for Ro-Ro ships

To reduce the area on deck occupied by each car and the labour and time required for lashing and unlashing cars, it has been proposed by the author that in some conditions, cars on decks could be transported without lashing. To evaluate cargo securing based on this “lashing-free” concept, computational code was developed to calculate the vehicle–deck interactions for various ship motions. The code was structured by incorporating a vehicle model into a piece of ship motion calculation code. A series of time-domain simulations were conducted to evaluate vehicle securing. It was found that for a target ship consisting of a 6000-unit Ro-Ro vessel, vehicle securing is mainly influenced by the ship's rolling motions and is highly dependent on the wave height and loading conditions. It was suggested from the analysis that vehicles could be secured without being lashed in a large area of the ship in specific weather conditions and on some routes with less adverse sea states. However, it is still suggested that conventional lashing holes should be constructed on the deck because in severe sea states the cars will still need to be lashed. The limitations of the current investigations are also presented. The relevant research work was carried out at the Division of Ship Design and Engineering, Department of Shipping and Marine Technology, Chalmers University of Technology.     

S^2 BHCA Multiple AUVs cooperation oriented control architecture

Oceanographic survey, or other similar applications should be the applications of multiple AUVs. In this paper, the skill ＆ simulation based hybrid control architecture （S^2BHCA） as the controller＇s design reference was proposed. It is a multi-robot cooperation oriented intelligent control architecture based on hybrid ideas. The S^2BHCA attempts to incorporate the virtues of the reactive controller and of the deliberative controller by introducing the concept of the ＂skill＂. The additional online task simulation ability for cooperation is supported, too. As an application, a multiple AUV control system was developed with three ＂skills＂ for the MCM mission including two different cooperative tasks. The simulation and the sea trials show that simple task expression, fast reaction and better cooperation support can be achieved by realizing the AUV controller based on the S^2BHCA.     

Outline of scientific ocean drilling and specifications of riser drilling vessel Chikyu

 The Japan Marine Science and Technology Center (JAMSTEC) has been, and is now promoting the “OD21” program (i.e., “Ocean drilling in the 21st century”). This is the first plan in the world to utilize deep-water riser-drilling technologies for scientific drilling. One of the important factors for the success of this program is the development of a high-performance drilling vessel. Since 1990, JAMSTEC has been continuing a technological study of a riser-drilling vessel for scientific studies with an operational capability in waters up to 4000 m deep. It was decided to start the construction with a two-phase plan: a vessel with a riser operation for waters up to 2500 m deep will be constructed in the initial stage, and then the vessel will be modified to a 4000-m depth capability. In the development process of the vessel, named Chikyu, many new technical developments have taken place, such as drilling/coring equipment, a dynamic positioning system, etc. Thus, the Chikyu is expected to contribute to ocean engineering and other work, in addition to scientific advances. Received: June 15, 2002 / Accepted: November 11, 2002 Address correspondence to: Y. Yano (e-mail: yanoy@jamstec.go.jp)     

基于相对差距和法的改装船舶优选

提出基于MATLAB、Microsoft SQL Server和VB. NET混合编程的相对差距和法。在民船动员的过程中,得到一个任务后,需要快速的选择一条适合的改装船舶。利用VB.NET作为程序设计语言,Microsoft SQL Server数据库存放船舶数据,MATLAB对船舶的参数进行大量的计算,结合MATLAB、Microsoft SQL Server与VB. NET这3种工具的优势,通过三者的混合编程实现利用相对差距和法快速选择改装船舶。通过实例证明该方法是可行的、快速的。     

基于改进Petri网的船舶电力系统故障诊断

将Petri网理论用于船舶电力系统故障诊断中,提出了一种改进的Petri网故障诊断模型。在基本Petri网诊断模型的基础上引入模糊推理规则形成模糊Petri网,说明了该方法的模型构建、推理过程及解析方法的表示。利用该方法对船舶电力系统进行故障诊断使推理过程简洁、诊断快速、诊断结果也更科学有效。     

船舶管加工工艺数据库系统设计与应用

为提高船厂对管件生产数据和质量数据的管控，提出构建船舶管加工工艺数据库系统。研究管加工工艺数据库系统总体设计，梳理管加工工艺流程，完善管件组立过程。经船厂实际应用，船舶管加工工艺数据库系统实现管件物料清单（Bill of Material，BOM）管理规范化和工时精细化，可有效提高船厂生产效率，满足企业预期要求。     

Computer-based support for the evaluation of ship handling exercise results

One of the most important parts of the simulator exercise is the evaluation of the students’ results by the instructor both during and after the training session. This should be performed in two ways: first, during the exercise run to ensure that the training objective can be achieved and second after exercise completion in order to give the students an indication of their performance during the simulation run. For these purposes software tools have been created and implemented at the Maritime Simulation Centre in Warnemünde: the “Surveillance Tool”, allows for a monitoring during the run and the “Evaluation Tool” will enable a detailed evaluation by the instructor after the run. It allows for in-depth search within the replay data and at the same time facilitates the calculation of the final score for the student’s performance based on measurement factors as penalties for exceeding quality limits. Within this paper a brief overview of the principles of these methods is high-lighted and selected examples of applications are described.     

LNG管道冷应力数值模拟

在LNG船舶设计建造中,用于运输、装卸的液化低温管道需承受-160 ～+80℃的温差变化,在这个过程中极易对船舶的管道造成应力损伤,因此有必要对LNG船舶管道进行应力分析.文章基于CFD建立T型三通管管道模型,利用FLUENT软件进行数值模拟,从不同支管管径和不同预冷速度2个角度,研究支管管径、进口流速对三通管内压力场...     

Study on real-time estimation of the ship motion cross spectra

 Time-varying coefficient vector autoregressive (T-VVAR) modeling with instantaneous responses is applied to spectrum analysis based on the nonstationary motion data of ships. Because of the ship's maneuvers, changes such as course and speed, the ship motions in waves are regarded as a nonstationary random process, although the seaway can be considered as a stationary stochastic process. The T-VVAR model is transformed into a state space model, and the time-varying coefficients can be evaluated by using the Kalman filter algorithm. Using the estimated time-varying coefficients, the instantaneous cross spectra of the ship motions can be calculated at every moment. In order to examine the reliability of the proposed procedure, on-board tests were carried out. Under stationary conditions, at a constant speed and course, the proposed method shows good agreement with stationary vector autoregressive (SVAR) modeling analysis. Moreover, it is confirmed that the proposed method can estimate the instantaneous cross spectra of the ship motions even under nonstationary conditions, showing that this is a powerful tool for on-line analysis of the nonstationary motion data of ships. Received: August 2, 2002 / Accepted: November 28, 2002 Acknowledgments. The authors thank the captain and crew of the training ship Shioji Maru, Tokyo University of Mercantile Marine. Address correspondence to: T. Iseki (iseki@ipc.tosho-u.ac.jp) Updated from the Japanese original, which won the 2002 SNAJ prize (J Soc Nav Archit Jpn 2001;190:161–168)     

基于3DEXP的船舶管段装配信息计算方法

以实现任意形式船舶管段装配数据的自动化计算为目的，提出一种船舶管段装配信息计算方法。基于管段三维模型的重要特征，采用分治法构建管段通用数学模型，将复杂管段简化为相似子结构，计算相对角度和相对距离等管段装配信息。该方法在3DEXP上成功应用，研究成果对进一步探索船舶管系的数字化设计与制造具有重要意义。