Overview
Weld Sequence Modeling Software Interface Development (2018-453-013)
Project Team:
- HII-Ingalls
- ESI
- ShipConstructor
- NSWC-Carderock
2019
NSRP ASE INVESTMENT: $150k
Objective:
The goals of this project was to demonstrate the feasibility of using the “Weld Distortion Minimization Software” to optimize welding sequences and minimize weld induced deformation of very large ship assemblies/sub-assemblies. Specific objectives include:
- Develop interface to the ShipConstructor software to read assembly CAD data and the weld process information associated with each weld
- Automatically build the mesh of the assembly, populate the Weld Process Plan (WPP) and setup the model to run distortion analysis in ESI’s Weld Distortion Minimization Software
- Run baseline analysis of an existing ship assembly/Sub-assembly and predict deformation:
- Unit 4130 final assembly or similar as identified by HII, SSI, NSWCCD and ESI
- Compare and validate predicted deformation with shipyard data
- Run optimization of welding sequence and identify sequence(s) that minimize(s) deformation
- Unit 4130 final assembly or similar as identified by HII, SSI, NSWCCD and ESI
- Validate predicted sequence with shipyard data
- Demonstrate a “beta” version of the workflow process
- Gather feedback and develop technical specs for a fully automated software package suitable for shipyard use
Results:
The project developed the methodologies for rapid transfer of design model information for analysis by the prototype Weld Sequence Planning Tool, and successfully demonstrated accelerated analysis on ship structures. Additional recommendations for further development and commercialization are included in the Final Report.
Key Deliverables
Contact NSRP for the final report: ITAR Restricted.