This paper presents research carried out at QinetiQ Rosyth (formerly DERA Rosyth), which over the past ten years has been primarily concerned with the structural design and assessment of trimaran warships. The programme of work described has been based on hull forms varying from 1200 to 23000 tonnes displacement. Studies of load prediction, finite element analyses and parametric studies to develop draft design rules for trimarans are presented. Load prediction methodologies have been developed based on static balance and 3-D potential flow theory and validated against segmented model and full-scale operational trials. Finite element analyses have been carried out to derive an understanding of the load paths within trimaran structures in both the damaged and undamaged condition. The parametric studies consider variations to overall displacement, outrigger displacement, overall length, outrigger position and forward speed, based on indicative designs of 90m, 150m and 230m waterline length. Results are presented and conclusions drawn with respect to design and analysis, emphasising aspects particular to trimaran hull structures.
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