A Standard Series of Developable Surfaces

Abstract

Construction of any article from flat material is facilitated if the surfaces of the article are flat or developable. To produce a developable surface it is only necessary to bend the flat material; no stretching, twisting, or bulging is required. It is practicable to use developable surfaces for some areas in ships and boats. The mathematical definition of a developable surface is stated and explained. From this an analytical method is evolved for computing the coordinates of points in a developable surface. An example is given showing how a reasonable set of lines for a boat is produced by using certain coefficients in the formulas. This parent form can then be modified in different ways by making minor changes in the coefficients. The implications of using developable surfaces in naval architecture are discussed.