TranslateMarine & Naval Architecture
Ships, submarines, and offshore structures — engineering for the sea.
Lessons
All lessonsUnderstanding Vessel Stability and Center of Gravity
Learn how the center of gravity keeps ships upright in rough seas.
Marine Propulsion: The Basics of Shafts and Seals
Discover how power moves from the engine room to the open water.
Hull Materials and Corrosion Resistance
Explore how engineers protect steel ships from the harsh, salty sea environment.
Introduction to Marine Navigation Sensors
An overview of how modern ships use sensors to map their path at sea.
Why Do Ships Float?
The ancient science of buoyancy explained simply.
Challenges
Bio-Inspired Hydrodynamic Dampening Array
Design and prototype a modular, passive-actuated flow control device capable of mitigating vortex-induced vibration (VIV) on a cylindrical pylon submerged in high-velocity current. The mechanism must utilize flexible, biomimetic materials to adjust its surface topology in response to Reynolds number variations, thereby minimizing drag coefficient without external energy input. Validate the efficiency of your dampener by measuring the suppression of transverse oscillations in a scaled water-channel simulation.
Bio-Inspired Variable Geometry Hydrofoil
Design and construct a scale-model hydrofoil assembly capable of transitioning between high-lift takeoff configuration and low-drag high-speed cruise configuration. You must demonstrate active or passive pitch control using fluid dynamics principles to maintain stability under varying flow velocities. The system will be evaluated on lift-to-drag ratio efficiency and the ability to maintain a consistent depth in a simulated wave tank environment.
Bio-Inspired Hydrodynamic Boundary Layer Control
Design a scale-model hull geometry that utilizes active or passive surface texturing to induce turbulent transition delay and minimize skin friction drag. Evaluate the efficacy of your design by measuring the flow velocity differential across a closed-loop recirculating tank versus a baseline flat-plate control model. Provide a technical brief analyzing the Reynolds number regimes where your texture geometry achieved peak drag reduction.
Dynamic Ballast Oscillation Stabilization
Design and construct a scale model of a semi-submersible vessel capable of maintaining a stable horizontal platform while subjected to multi-axial wave simulation. You must integrate a passive pendulum or active fluid-transfer ballast system to dampen harmonic resonance induced by rhythmic input at the vessel's natural frequency. Success is measured by minimizing the pitch and roll excursion amplitudes relative to a control hull without damping mechanisms.
Bio-Inspired Variable Geometry Hull Optimization
Design and construct a scale model of a hull section utilizing flexible, non-rigid materials to simulate active morphing for drag reduction at varying Froude numbers. Your prototype must demonstrate a mechanical or tension-based actuation system capable of altering the hull's wetted surface area or bow profile to transition between displacement and semi-planing modes. Documentation must include an analysis of the center of buoyancy shift relative to the morphing geometry.
