Development of lightweight polymeric-composite superstructure for a fast boat

Abstract

This paper discusses the design of lightweight polymeric-composite superstructure for a fast boat (displacement up to 1 t) with solar panels powering its propulsion motor. The superstructure is made up by composite beams with sufficient dynamic stiffness and strength to withstand operational loads. External load was defined as spectral, inertial, transmitted as accelerations or displacements from hull to the superstructure via bearing joints. The material was GFRP with foam filler. The simulation is performed as per finite-element method in linear spatial beam formulation, solving the problems of natural vibrations and maximum dangerous response to spectral kinematic effect as a superposition of modes weighed by spectral coefficients. The study presents calculation for the initial superstructure design and its variations, to analyse sensitivity of dynamic and spectral responses to design changes. The study implements a new technique of generating a model of composite binary profile on single mesh. The results of this analysis, further verified on a more detailed idealization and supplemented by a calculation of inertial disturbances due to pitching and rolling, will yield the methodology for more computer-efficient design of lightweight superstructures for small boats made of polymeric composite materials.