Harnessing the load

Several recent Seahorse articles have focused on the analysis of advanced composite structures. Such detailed analyses are essential to minimising the risk in the design process but they are only one step in that process. It is not easy to lay down generic guidelines to the innovative design process. However, in the case of typical structural design of marine structures, where the goal in terms of desired shape and/or form is reasonably known, the basic approach can be represented as a flow chart.

Basis of structural design

The structural design loop has to start with an understanding of the expected loads on the structure, ie. having a clear idea of the loads in normal usage and understanding the extreme loads that can be applied in unusual circumstances.

To read the remainder of this article please go to the April 2003 edition of Seahorse, available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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