Hybrid composite and metallic structures may provide cost-effective solutions for future ship hulls. We will discuss the advantages of the hybrid hull from the "Total Ship Engineering" approach. They offer the potential to reduce the manufacturing costs associated with complex shaped bow and stern sections while simultaneously providing a lower weight and non-magnetic structural design. Challenges to achieving these benefits include the unknown and uncertain structural performance of the composite-steel joint connection. This interface is a complex combination of in-plane and out-of-plane strength, bearing and friction, which represent several challenges for computations and design. The paper will discuss the research and development effort on lightweight, low-cost, improved survivability hybrid hull concepts and composite-to-steel joining technology for future hybrid hull structures. It will also discuss the use of the hybrid concept for hull modification to increase payload and improve fuel efficiency. It will address analytical assessment and the influence of design parameters on joint performance, tests of several hybrid joint components involving the in-plane attachment of a composite bow/stern component to a metallic mid-body ship hull, investigations of material and geometric design parameters for hybrid composite-to-steel joints for bonded, fastened, and bonded/fastened configurations and their performance under static, dynamic loading.
展开▼
