Showing papers on "Shipbuilding published in 2011"

Supply chain management in the shipbuilding industry: challenges and perspectives:

Abstract: Currently, one of the main challenges for most of the shipbuilding companies is to manage the activities performed by a network of suppliers worldwide. Empirical evidence shows that the lack of int...

The nuclear propulsion of merchant ships: Aspects of engineering, science and technology

Abstract: This paper first considers the underlying nuclear physics and then explores the potential application of that science to the propulsion of merchant ships. It then examines the options for the exploitation of nuclear technology and considers some of the engineering implications of deploying the technology. Consideration is then given to the application of nuclear propulsion to a series of ship types, including tankers, container ships and cruise vessels. In each case two sizes of ship are chosen, one of fairly conventional size and the other much larger.

The Basis for South Korea's Ascent in the Shipbuilding Industry, 1970–1990

Abstract: The last 50 years have seen a dramatic shift in the hegemony of the shipbuilding industry. Today more than 90 per cent of the world's newbuilding orders have been placed at yards in South Korea, China and Japan. South Korea emerged as a major shipbuilding nation in the period from 1970 to the late 1980s, when world shipping was in crisis. The aim of this paper is to explain how the country managed to gain this position. After a presentation of world shipbuilding in general, and South Korean shipbuilding in particular, the paper analyses domestic and international factors that can explain South Korea's growing market share. At the domestic level, we consider the interplay between the country's comparative advantages, technological learning and a conscious industrial policy aimed at escalating shipbuilding capacity. At the international level, we suggest that the severe crisis in shipping and shipbuilding might in fact have been beneficial for South Korea's ability to grab market shares.

Augmented reality pipe layout planning in the shipbuilding industry

Abstract: As large ships are never produced in masses, it often occurs that the construction process and production process overlap in time. Many shipbuilding companies have problems with discrepancies between the construction data and the real built ship. The assembly department often has to modify CAD data for a successful installation. We present an augmented reality system, where a user can visualize the construction data of pipes and modify these in the case of misalignment, collisions or any other conflicts. The modified pipe geometry can be stored and further used as input for CNC pipe bending machines. To guarantee an exactly orthogonal passage of the pipes through aligning bolt holes, we integrated an optical measurement tool into the pipe alignment process.

Pose-relay videometrics based ship deformation measurement system and sea trials

Abstract: The measurement of ship deformation has been a difficult problem for the global ship building industry and navigation field research. So far, an effective and proven method for measuring 3D position and attitude deformation remains unavailable. This article proposes an innovative pose-relay videometrics measurement system for ship deformation on the basis of primary research and experimental validation. The system offers solutions to the important technical problems such as infrared marker manufacture, high-precision detection and multi-camera synchronization and control. Sea trials were carried out, and reasonable, long-term, and continuous 3D data of position and attitude deformations between a given deck point and the ship reference, and between the ship’s head and the stern were acquired for the first time. The experiments have highlighted the considerable applicability of the proposed method of deformation measurement and long-term monitoring of ships and similar large structures.

Spatial scheduling for shape-changing mega-blocks in a shipbuilding company

Abstract: To overcome space restriction and to increase productivity, some shipbuilding companies use floating-docks on the sea instead of dry-docks on the land. In that case, a floating-crane that is capable of lifting very heavy objects (up to 3600 tons) is used to handle the blocks which are the basic units in shipbuilding processes, and therefore, very large blocks (also called mega-blocks) can be used to build a ship, but because there are some positional restrictions under which the mega-block assembly yard can be constructed, the space is the scarcest resource in the process. The focus of the research reported in this paper is to develop an efficient spatial schedule for the mega-block assembly yard. First, we develop a length-time two-dimensional packing model for this problem. Since the optimisation model cannot be solved using an analytical method, we propose a GA-based heuristic algorithm using computational geometry theory. Through performing a series of computational experiments, we finally show that t...

Welding technologies in shipbuilding industry

Abstract: Welding is very important in shipbuilding industry. In order to protect the ship structure, this process should be performed by the qualified welders and controlled efficiently by the quality control engineers and Classification Societies. All welders should have a certificate and the procedures should be prepared in the shipyards. There are several kinds of welding methods. In shipbuilding, the most common technique is electrical arc welding. With the developed technology in all areas, welding technology is improving with each passing day. Today, ceramic welding is much started to be used especially on the shell platings and block connections. This provides easiness for the welders and shortens the production period. The shipyards that intend to construct bigger vessels, build up production lines and use robots for welding in these lines. This increases quality, production capacity and decreases the planning times and production periods. In the scope of new technologies on welding, the importance of welding and the benefits of new techniques to the ship building are investigated, evaluated and some suggestions are put forward.

Interfirm collaboration in the shipbuilding industry: the shipbuilding cycle perspective

Abstract: This paper investigates the interfirm cooperative strategies of shipbuilding firms. This paper aims to understand the system nature and dynamics of interfirm cooperative strategies adopted by firms in the shipbuilding industry related to the phase of the shipbuilding cycle. A theory- building approach from case studies is applied in this study. The study is based on interviews with managers of the Norwegian, Danish, Polish and Ukrainian shipbuilding firms. In addition, secondary data were collected. Issues relating to the aims of joining cooperative agreements; resources and competences which the shipbuilding firms and their collaborators contribute to joint ventures, strategic alliances and other collaborative arrangements; and how collaborative strategies were related to the phase of the shipbuilding cycle were explored. Implications for further research, practitioners and policy-makers are provided.

Energy efficiency parametric design tool in the framework of holistic ship design optimization

Abstract: Recent International Maritime Organization (IMO) decisions with respect to measures to reduce the emissions from maritime greenhouse gases (GHGs) suggest that the collaboration of all major stakeholders of shipbuilding and ship operations is required to address this complex techno-economical and highly political problem efficiently. This calls eventually for the development of proper design, operational knowledge, and assessment tools for the energy-efficient design and operation of ships, as suggested by the Second IMO GHG Study (2009). This type of coordination of the efforts of many maritime stakeholders, with often conflicting professional interests but ultimately commonly aiming at optimal ship design and operation solutions, has been addressed within a methodology developed in the EU-funded Logistics-Based (LOGBASED) Design Project (2004–2007). Based on the knowledge base developed within this project, a new parametric design software tool (PDT) has been developed by the National Technical University of Athens, Ship Design Laboratory (NTUA-SDL), for implementing an energy efficiency design and management procedure. The PDT is an integral part of an earlier developed holistic ship design optimization approach by NTUA-SDL that addresses the multi-objective ship design optimization problem. It provides Pareto-optimum solutions and a complete mapping of the design space in a comprehensive way for the final assessment and decision by all the involved stakeholders. The application of the tool to the design of a large oil tanker and alternatively to container ships is elaborated in the presented paper.

The Economics of Shipbuilding in the United Kingdom

Abstract: This volume, first published in 1960, offers a description, in non-technical language, of the state of the British shipbuilding industry, its prospects, and how it stood in relation to its competitors by the middle of the twentieth century. The topics Mr Parkinson discusses are the growth of the industry, its organisation, the demand for ships, and the supply. The last subject touches on such questions as technical change, industrial organisation, labour and competition.

Procedure for estimating the effectiveness of ship modular outfitting

Abstract: The shipbuilding industry plays an important role in increasing employment and productivity of the national industry. It is especially important when the market has fallen due to the influence of the global economical crisis. This paper is based on modular outfitting concepts which are used in modern shipyards, with the aim of optimising the shipbuilding production process by increasing the portion of modular vessel outfitting as a way of shortening the duration of the shipbuilding process, reducing costs and increasing competitiveness without investing in new facilities, machines and tools. To illustrate the cost savings potential obtained by this research, a comparable procedure for cost benefit estimation for a conventional strategy versus cost estimation for a modularised design approach and relevant build strategy is developed. On the basis of the results it is possible to measure cost benefit as a consequence of using the modular outfitting concept within the shipbuilding process.

The shipbuilding industry in China

Abstract: This report on the shipbuilding industry in China is one in a series of reports to provide an insight into the shipbuilding sectors of both OECD members and non-OECD economies.

The interaction between the ship repair, ship conversion and shipbuilding industries

Abstract: Shipyards can undertake a variety of activities, not all related to the construction of new vessels. While there are yards that are largely dedicated to new buildings, and others dedicated to ship repair and maintenance, in practice that distinction is blurred, as both activities can be undertaken in most yards. This report examines the interaction between these yards, in particular how feasible it is for yards to move from one activity to the other, or perhaps to engage in both at the same time. The relevance of this is that if there are few barriers for yards to move between activities, then this will have an impact on the availability of shipbuilding capacity to meet expansions or contractions of new-building demand.

Collaborative knowledge management: case studies from ship design

Abstract: The recent increase in information and knowledge flows within the shipbuilding industry, due to the implementation of computer-aided design and tougher market requirements for ship design, generates a need for effective collaboration between ship designers, shipowners, shipyards, suppliers, classification societies, and other supply chain partners. This paper uses a comparative case study approach to explore how two different ship design firms have organised cooperative work during the design process, and how they employed computer-aided collaborative tools for knowledge management. This study will be interesting for practitioners from shipbuilding and ship design firms, and scholars of knowledge management and applications of collaborative knowledge management tools in organisations.

Identifying and analysing underlying problems of shipbuilding industries in bangladesh

Abstract: ­­­­ Shipbuilding is considered to be a thrust sector in the economy of Bangladesh. But various problems are there to obstruct the development of this sector. This paper is aimed to identify the underlying problems and then analyze the nature of the problems to make it helpful overcoming the obstacles. A brief history and prospect of the shipbuilding industries in Bangladesh in the perspective of global scenario is also discussed. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v41i2.7509

Integration Alternatives for Ship Designers and Shipyards

Abstract: The offshore oil industry in Norway has for decades required advanced special purpose equipment for its operations Norwegian shipbuilders have supplied the offshore industry and specialized in producing customized and technologically advanced ships Shipbuilding is a typical Engineer-to-Order (ETO) industry While the ship concept and design continues to be developed in Norway, ship production is increasingly performed at foreign yards This characteristic makes the industry an interesting case for studying integration between actors This paper presents a typology of different integration alternatives for ship designers and shipyards The three alternatives presented are ownership, partner yard and market yard The paper also identifies and discusses industry-relevant business factors that are affected by the choice of integration level

Configuration estimation method for preliminary cost of ships based on engineering bills of materials

Abstract: Ships are complex engineering structures that are designed and built on the basis of technical experience. A shipowner will often be required to estimate the price of a new ship on the basis of the value of comparable ships identified in trade journals. Similarly, shipbuilders are often interested in estimating approximate costs during the tendering phase in order to determine whether a ship is likely to be competitive for a particular order. Thus, when designing a ship prior to having obtained a contract, one of the most important processes is the estimation of approximate costs, including materials, associated labor, and overhead. During this preliminary design phase, the design is temporary and subject to change based on variations in the shipowner’s requirements. Hence, quick and flexible responses are key during this period and an integral aspect of the competitive powers of the shipbuilder. Given this environment, we propose a “configuration estimation method.” Our method is based on the configuration design method that is widely used in three-dimensional (3D) computer aided design (CAD) systems. We assume that a product lifecycle management system is furnished and that the cost is then estimated via the configuration of the ship, using an engineering bill of materials (E-BOM). In referring to the E-BOM, we utilize technical parametric costs derived from similar ships built previously. Using the proposed method, it is possible to obtain an accurate list of materials from the quotation, as well as a detailed work assessment for labor costs and overhead rates, so that reliable cost estimates can be generated quickly and flexibly. To demonstrate the practical applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method, we implement the prototype of a shipbuilding configuration estimation system by using a Microsoft Structured Query Language database and an E-BOM from AVEVA Marine version 12.01, which is a representative CAD system for shipbuilding.

Navy LPD-17 Amphibious Ship Procurement: Background, Issues, and Options for Congress

Abstract: The Navy's FY2011-FY2015 shipbuilding plan calls for procuring an 11th and final San Antonio (LPD-17) class amphibious ship in FY2012. This report discusses the procurement cost estimates of this ship, as well as related issues for Congress.

Lean manufacturing in shipbuilding with Monte Carlo simulation

Abstract: The shipbuilding industry is very competitive, and shipyard management must strive to improve productivity as a way of keeping up with world competition Analysis of the assembling of interim products through shipyard process lanes is important from a standpoint of modern shipbuilding techniques and methods which includes the lean manufacturing and design for production concepts Whereas the design for production concept has bean readily applied in many shipyards, a lean manufacturing methodology for shipyards is lacking Therefore, the aim of this paper is to provide a methodology for improving the flow of interim products by applying the lean manufacturing concept Since shipyard management is usually not sure how to approach a transformation of its facilities due to the risks involved, this paper couples lean transformation with Monte Carlo simulation in applying the key parameter for comparing productivity, man-hours The simulation involves process engineering transformation of an actual shipyard’s panel-block assembly facilities Application of the lean manufacturing methodology brings productivity improvements of 60%

Can a shipyard work towards lean shipbuilding or agile manufacturing

Abstract: Lean production is regarded by many as simply an enhancement of mass production methods, whereas agility implies breaking out of the mass-production mould and producing much more highly customized products—where the customer wants them in any quantity. In a product line context, it amounts to striving for economies of scope, rather than economies of scale ideally serving ever-smaller niche markets, even quantities of one, without the high cost traditionally associated with customization. A lean company may be thought of as a very productive and cost efficient producer of goods or services. − Driving, which adds no value to the product; − Defects, which burden the productive process generating rework, wasted of time, manpower, hours of equipment etc. 1.2 Agile Manufacturing According to Yusuf et al. (1999) agility can be summarized as the use of well-known developed technologies and manufacturing methods. Among them there are Lean Manufacturing, CIM, TQM, MRP II, BPR, Employee Empowerment and OPT. In other words agility is the ability to grow business in competitive markets of continuous and unexpected changes, with rapid response aimed at the consumer/ customer valuing the product and service. − CIM (Computer Integrating Manufacturing); − TQM (Total Quality Management); − MRP II (Manufacturing Resources Planning); − BPR (Business Process Reengineering); − OPT (Optimized Production Technology). Agile can be describe as ‘‘Ability of an organization to detect changes (which can be opportunities or threats or a combination of both) in its business environment and hence providing focused and rapid responses to its customers and stakeholders by reconfiguring its resources, processes and strategies” (Mathiyakalan, et al., 2005). An effective integration of response ability and knowledge management in order to rapidly, efficiently and accurately adapt to any unexpected (or unpredictable) change in both proactive and reactive business/customer needs and opportunities without compromising with the cost or the quality of the product/process (Ganguly et al., 2009).

Prevention of Human Error in Shipbuilding Industry

Abstract: The nuclear power plants and chemical industries are trying to find human error to prevent occupational injury. The ratio of occupational injury is higher than the other industries in shipbuilding industry. It is known that the most important reason is human error. Recently, the shipbuilding industries interest in human error to prevent occupational injury. This paper outlines four approaches of human error identification used in shipbuilding industry such as survey of occupational injury, root cause analysis, risk assessment, and performance shaping factors. Finally, this paper proposes the interventions of ergonomics for preventing the human errors.

Ships, slaves and slipways: towards an archaeology of shipbuilding in Bermuda

Abstract: The Bermudian shipbuilding industry was an important part of the local economy, and made a particular international contribution to trade and maritime design during the 18th century. Whilst its importance has long been recognized by historians, little archaeological attention has hitherto been paid to the extant remains. This paper describes archaeological survey of two shipbuilding sites, undertaken in 2004 and 2006. The project found that extensive remains of Bermuda's important shipbuilding industry survive; future directions for research are outlined.

The Benefits and Cost Impact of Aluminum Naval Ship Structure

Abstract: Due to budget pressure and a growing diversity of mission requirements, the US Navy is in need of affordable and operation-flexible ships. This paper presents an acquisition and total life cycle cost comparison of steel and aluminum equivalent naval ship designs. A common perception is that aluminum ships cost significantly more than steel ships. This paper illustrates that even though the cost of the equivalent aluminum ship structure is 40% more than the steel structure, the equivalent aluminum naval ship can be built within just 7.5% of the acquisition price of the steel ship. This is possible because of the cascading benefits of the aluminum ship's significantly lighter weight. Advances in aluminum technology and new facilities in the shipyards for aluminum production are further improving the acquisition cost of aluminum ship. From a total life cycle cost perspective, aluminum ships enjoy a clear advantage over steel ships, the details of which are provided in this paper. Based on the findings presented in the paper, it is suggested that the US Navy should consider broadening its use of aluminum ships.

Competition on the Global Shipbuilding Market under the Global Crisis Impact

Abstract: The paper deals with the analysis of the shipbuilding activity under the new conditions of the global crisis. The method of research is the comparative analysis used on two levels: global and European. The research is important and actual because Romania became one of the most important players in the European shipbuilding indystry. Even if the analysis is focused on the economic performance, it describes the social impact of the crisis by using the evolution of the employees’ number, the output trend in connection with wages and total revenues, etc. The main conclusion of the paper is that Europe losted its main position on the world shipbuilding market and presents a comparative disadvantage related to its Asian competitors. The whole analysis is supported by pertinent statistical tables and diagrams and uses the latest official statistic databasis.