Verification and Optimization of Advanced Finite Element Modeling Techniques for Complex Submarine Hull Structures

Advances in finite element analysis (FEA) techniques have spurred debate in the Navy design community regarding the value of higher fidelity models with advanced element formulations in submarine pressure hull design. Higher complexity models can increase model accuracy, but the increased effort required to create higher fidelity models results in decreasing added value as subsequent levels of refinement are added. Cardinal Engineering proposes developing a design tool which dictates best practices for modeling and analyzing complex submarine pressure hull structures. The design tool will establish modeling criteria, backed by empirical data, to create cost-effective, technically accurate analytical models. The design tool will be developed through a comprehensive analysis and testing effort focused on specific geometries known to have introduced controversy between the design yards and the Navy during the design cycle. The geometries chosen will be examined computationally with an array of modeling methods of increasing levels of complexity. The analysis results will be compared to test data in order to provide assurance regarding the level of accuracy achieved by the analysis. Ultimately, the agreement between test and analysis will be used to establish the criteria defined in the design tool.