3D Parametric Modeling for Ship Concept Design: A Flexible Approach to General Arrangement Plan

The concept design phase of a ship is a critical stage that lays the foundation for successful project development, as it establishes the primary framework for the vessel's operational and technical characteristics. This phase requires the evaluation of multiple design alternatives to achieve an optimal balance between performance and feasibility while addressing the complex requirements of stakeholders. Traditionally, general arrangement plans have been developed using 2D CAD tools, where spatial organization decisions are primarily driven by experience and specific owner requests. However, this conventional approach presents significant limitations, particularly when modifications are needed. Since adjustments often require extensive manual rework, the process becomes inefficient and less adaptable to evolving design constraints. Additionally, ensuring consistency across multiple design iterations can be challenging, increasing the risk of errors and delays. To overcome these limitations, this study introduces an innovative methodology for ship concept design, leveraging 3D parametric modeling as a key enabler for enhanced flexibility and efficiency. Unlike traditional methods, this approach facilitates the rapid generation and assessment of alternative solutions, particularly through the development of parametric general arrangement plans. These plans allow for the swift modification of design parameters, such as layout dimensions, volumetric capacities, and functional configurations, while maintaining overall consistency within the model. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is demonstrated through a case study involving the design of a passenger transport vessel. By integrating advanced parametric modeling techniques, the design process becomes more dynamic and responsive, enabling the exploration of multiple spatial configurations with ease. This enhanced adaptability not only streamlines the overall workflow but also allows designers to quickly address changes in requirements or constraints posed by shipowners, ultimately leading to a more efficient and iterative design process.