Pillars definition and dimensioning, Verification and Validation of FEM parametric model

Abstract

In the following master thesis, the author will describe the implementation of pillar staggering software based on an existing Excel sheet. The programming was made using VBA code. This software of thousands of code lines consists in two modes: one automatic and one manual. The automatic one will provide a complete listing usable by the design office whereas the manual one will allow pillar and loading modification.

In a second time, a verification and validation process will be performed using solid FE model and laboratory analysis.

Special attention was given to the welds modeling and several FE model will be proposed.

The first model will be produced using an APDL macro in ANSYS mechanical. For this step, more than 1300 code lines were produced.

The additional models will be produced using ANSYS workbench. Particularly suitable for parametric modeling, this will allow to produce a solid parametric model for round and square pillar. These models will then be verified using laboratory tests and can then be used to validate the Excel sheet results.

At the end of this thesis, improvement proposals are made such as a global loop of optimization process.

This project was performed with the help of STX hull department using intern data.

This program was used on the Oasis 3 sister ship known at the date of the 1 January 2015 as the biggest passenger ship worldwide.