Stability and Hydrodynamic Analysis of a Deepwater Spar Platformin The Gulf of Mexico

Global energy demand has driven the oil industry to develop floating systems with stability, low response motions, high production capacity for oil and gas in deep and ultra-deep water. Its development is an iterative process, due to the fact that it analyzes the production and safety requirements according to the bases of the project, and subsequently it will advance or go back, according to its performance, one step in the design spiral. Hernandez-Menez (2020) states that it is a meticulous process, given the high cost it represents, it requires an excellent and functional design, according to the specifications required for a safe operation. For this reason, new floating systems have been developed, such as Spar-type platforms. Hernandez-Hernandez (2020) mentions that the environmental conditions, hull shapes and weight distribution are key factors for the stability and hydrodynamic response of a floating production system which is why stability and minimal motion are sought to prevent a stoppage or failure in oil and gas production equipment. Currently there is not a floating system of this type in Mexican territory, this study analyzes a case under environmental conditions of the Gulf of Mexico, establishing the hull shape, stability criteria and loading conditions to determine the motions of the platform

Analysis of technical standards for boat design: river electromobility of small boats in Colombia

Introducing river-based electromobility in a country presents technical, environmental, and economic challenges. Once a dependable river mobility scheme is implemented, various commercial and industrial businesses can be established, benefiting multiple communities. However, it is crucial to effectively manage the diverse activities associated with watercraft. In Colombia, technical and environmental standards currently do not adequately support the use of small electric boats or promote their effective implementation. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for classifying, prioritizing, and analyzing standards for small boats using a normative framework and a Systems Life Cycle Management (SLCM) design method. Additionally, as an application of the method, the document analyzes small boat designs in Colombia based on environmental and electromobility standards. This paper categorizes and ranks relevant standards for small boats, focusing on the application of electromobility on rivers. The proposed approach simplifies referencing standards and helps classify, prioritize, and analyze them. It is noteworthy that Colombia requires the adoption of a greater number of standards to support electromobility

AI for Comprehensive Naval Project Management: From Render to Launch

The integration of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools is transforming project management in the naval industry. This article proposes the design of a comprehensive management system for naval design and engineering projects that incorporates AI and machine learning technologies in each phase of the project life cycle. Using Adaptive Structuration Theory (AST), the study examines how design project managers implement these tools to optimize processes from conceptualization to delivery. Factors such as Innovative Attitude, Peer Influence, and Task-Technology Fit (TTF) are considered. The proposed system includes modules for document analysis, activity planning, cost and timeline forecasting, and risk and requirements management, all powered by AI. An integration plan and evaluation framework are presented to measure the potential impact of the system on the efficiency and effectiveness of naval project management. This study offers a significant contribution to the understanding how generative AI can transform project management in the naval industry, while addressing the associated ethical and practical challenges

Conceptual design of a hybrid propulsion vessel for transporting green hydrogen to aquaculture farms

This work describes the conceptual design process of a vessel intended to transport green hydrogen to aquaculture farms in the Aysén Region, Chile. The design proposes a hybrid power generation configuration, which integrates PEM fuel cells (PEMFC) and a battery bank, to ensure efficient and continuous operation. Within the propulsion system, the implementation of an azimuthal Z-drive system is established, enhancing maneuverability for efficient operations in the cultivation centers. The process includes an exhaustive analysis of the ship\u27s mission profile, together with improvements in hull design, evaluating the forward resistance by means of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Power demand under different sailing conditions is also considered, with the objective of optimizing the power generation capacity of the plant and the hydrogen storage required for the propulsion and transport system. The development of this work is part of the PT02 project at the Sustainable Acceleration Center for Electromobility (CASE)

TACAN and DF Systems Integration in the Colombian Oceanic Patrol Vessel: Challenges and Solutions

This article discusses the installation of TACAN and DF navigation systems on the Colombian Ocean Patrol Vessel to enhance operational and safety capabilities, especially for helicopter operations. It outlines the technical challenges of integrating these systems due to limited space and potential electromagnetic interference, detailing the analysis and planning process from 2017 to 2022. In 2023, naval commands confirmed the critical importance of the TACAN system. The main technical issue that has been identified pertains to optimizing both systems’ antennas within the mast’s confines to ensure optimal functionality and mitigate interferences. The article examines a range of technical solutions and integration strategies that have been devised to address these challenges

Conceptual Study on Maximum Allowable Lengthening for a 4629 DWT Tanker to Enhance Cargo Capacity and Convert to Dual-Fuel LNG/Diesel Propulsion

This study examines the midsection lengthening of a 4629 DWT tanker by adding proportional segments equivalent to the length of one tank. The still water bending moment of the original ship was estimated, and the combined bending moments for different scenarios in unrestricted waters were analyzed using MaxSurf. The original sectional modulus was calculated and compared using POSEIDON software, as well as the formulas provided by ABS and DNV for longitudinal strength assessment. To reduce CO₂ emissions, a dual-fuel propulsion system was proposed, taking advantage of the additional space made available by the lengthening. The EEXI of the original engine, the EEDI of the LNG-powered engine, and the CII were calculated, demonstrating notable emission reductions. As part of the optimization proposal, the tanker’s cargo capacity was increased, revealing the potential to boost revenue per voyage while simultaneously improving maritime routes through reduced emissions. Lastly, a structural and propulsion analysis of the lengthened vessel was performed using the Campbell diagram. The natural frequencies of the ship’s beam were estimated with POSEIDON, identifying critical zones and potential resonances that could impact structural integrity

Adaptability of living spaces during the basic design phase: case of the Colombian Ocean Patrol Vessel (Patrullera Oceánica Colombiana - POC)

Adaptability is defined as the ability to adjust to a new environment, challenge, or situation. In the creative process of spatial design, adaptability refers to the ability to incorporate, into the interior design of a vessel, the requirements generated in a dynamic, developing, and constantly evolving environment. This document describes the application of the User-Centered Design (UCD) methodology, integrated with the Evans Design Spiral, to support the configuration of the living and support spaces for the crew of the Colombian Ocean Patrol Vessel (POC). The design process aimed to meet the client’s requirements within short deadlines, comply with classification standards, and ensure the integration of the ship\u27s systems. During development, several spatial distribution proposals were evaluated during the contractual and functional phases. The final design successfully fulfilled the spatial and operational requirements of the Colombian Navy while adhering to COTECMAR\u27s habitability standards

Digital transformation as an approach to a warehouse 4.0

Shipbuilding and ship repair projects require a complex variety of materials, including raw materials, supplies, consumables, equipment, and spare parts. These materials demand a robust process for effective materials management. Shipyards, especially those that combine shipbuilding and ship repair business units, face the challenge of variability in terms of the number of projects, which intensifies the demand and variety of items required. The materials management process includes sub-processes such as material requirements planning, receiving and shipping operations, inventory control, supplier-managed inventory, and the promotion of turnover. Consequently, the challenge for warehouse managers is to coordinate and streamline these activities to help maintain high levels of productivity in shipbuilding and ship repair projects. The purpose of this article is to analyze how disruptive technologies within the framework of Industry 4.0 can help warehouse managers address current and future challenges, particularly those arising from the diverse and dynamic nature of projects within an engineer-to-order system oriented toward project-based production. This includes exploring best practices, identifying opportunities for improvement, and formulating an implementation plan that incorporates both procedural and technological advancements

Design of a charger/discharger for hybrid energy storage stations, intended for electric vessels used in river transportation

Electric motor-powered river vessels are increasingly common in areas that prioritize sustainability and environmental protection. The use of electric motors enhances energy efficiency, reduces emissions, noise levels, operational costs, and maintenance frequency. These motors are powered by batteries previously charged at a charging station, which can be equipped with battery banks composed of new batteries, second-life batteries (SLBs), or hybrid systems integrating both types of batteries. The use of SLBs, which still retain a significant portion of their capacity after their first life, optimizes resources, reduces costs and waste, and extends their service life. Due to the heterogeneous degradation of cells in SLBs and the progressive reduction of capacity with each charge/discharge cycle, it is necessary to implement a specific control and monitoring strategy for these cycles to optimize their lifespan. This work describes the design of the power and control systems for a battery charger/discharger based on a Boost converter. The system employs a current controller that combines sliding-mode current control with a proportional-integral controller to ensure overall stability and limit current derivatives, thereby preventing accelerated battery degradation. This modular plug-and-play device enables the optimal connection and charging of both new and second-life batteries. Simulation results confirmed the validity of the proposed designs by meeting the established requirements in charge, discharge, and standby scenarios