Design and engineering consultancy Houlder has announced a collaborative project with Siem Shipping UK and the University of Southampton to develop the Conceptual, Operational, Modelling Linked (COMLink) Design Tool.
This tool aims to enhance early-stage ship design by improving wave resistance predictions, leading to efficient vessel operations.
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It is intended to address the challenge of accurately predicting the additional power required for ships to operate effectively in waves.
Traditional design methods often overlook these conditions, which can result in inefficiencies.
The project will develop a surrogate model by combining empirical data with high-fidelity simulations, which will enable designers to create vessels that are both efficient and resilient from the start.
As the project leader, Houlder will oversee the coordination and integration of all components into the COMLink Tool.
Siem Shipping UK will provide crucial operational data from its fleet of car carriers, enhancing the tool’s accuracy in predicting seakeeping performance.
The University of Southampton will support the development of surrogate models through simulations and disseminate findings within the industry.
The tool will initially focus on car carrier hull forms, with the potential to extend its application to various ship types.
Accurate power predictions in waves will lead to better hull designs, reduced fuel consumption, and lower emissions.
Houlder data analytics lead Iebum Shin said: “The COMLink Tool is a game-changer for ship design. By combining real-world operational data with cutting-edge modelling techniques, we can move beyond conventional assumptions and create vessels that are truly optimised for their working conditions.
“This project underscores Houlder’s commitment to driving innovation and efficiency in the maritime industry.”
The project is funded by the Smart Shipping Acceleration Fund (SSAF), which is part of the UK SHORE programme, which is supported by £206m ($267.2m) in R&D funding from the UK Government.
The programme aims to decarbonise the maritime sector through initiatives such as the Zero Emission Vessels and Infrastructure (ZEVI) scheme and the Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition (CMDC).
In its latest funding round, the SSAF allocated £8m ($10.3m) to support 31 innovative projects across the UK, drawing more than £3 ($3.8m) in private investment and involving more than 103 partners.
