Development of a Novel Codesign Method for Use in Early-Stage High-Performance Craft Design

Abstract

The performance requirements of modern vessels have increased significantly over time, introducing unique challenges in design and analysis. Driven by competition, such as in the case of racing craft, new high performance vessels require design spaces that push the envelope of hydrodynamic technology. This optimization knowledge resides in the experience of racing experts and hasn’t yet been translated into a naval architecture taxonomy. This paper seeks to bridge the knowledge gap between experienced race manufacturers and naval architects, and in doing so, delineate a design methodology. Modeling risk as a function of vessel speed, as well as coupling the design of the control system in conjunction with its physical design embodiment, allows the overall system to reach a greater point of optimality than what can be accomplished by traditional iterative design processes alone. The approach will be demonstrated utilizing the design of a University of Michigan student-led undergraduate high-speed, electric boat competition team design. The team’s goal is to develop a vessel that has a top speed of 135 mph. The paper will discuss how the team used marine design methodologies integrated with a novel codesign method to create the design that is currently under construction for professional racing use by the team.