Knowledge is foundation to good design

• Conceptual and preliminary design: as the first stage in the design process, preliminary – or conceptual – designs establish the scientific foundation for the performance of a vessel and set the principal parameters, design concept and style. Based on an owner’s preferences, GPA produces designs based on a single idea or vision from the owner, or through a collaborative process based on detailed owner-furnished specifications.

• Bid packages and regulatory design: GPA develops full technical design descriptions that owners can utilise to solicit binding construction bids from shipyards and/or obtain regulatory approval from governing bodies, such as the US Coast Guard, or classification societies such as ABS, LR, and DNV. “We have established this expertise over the last three decades and are uniquely qualified to develop workable designs efficiently in terms of cost and time,” claims the company.

• Scientific/engineering analysis: GPA’s scientific expertise includes finite element analysis (FEA), ship motion and seakeeping studies, resistance and propulsion analysis, hydrostatics and stability calculations, as well as electrical power distribution analysis. Depending on a customer’s needs, GPA can provide these services as integral elements of the design process or as independent studies.

• Feasibility studies: GPA provides scientific and economic feasibility evaluations of concepts and proposals, ranging from the analysis of subjects such as shipping service routes and markets, port loading facilities or waste management systems, to the development of novel designs for vessels and other marine installations. The company conducts research to identify new applications for existing ships and established concepts, and develops innovative solutions to bring to market. GPA has undertaken such services for government agencies and commercial clients worldwide.

• Production engineering: GPA provides client shipyards with a complete range of production engineering services, including shape and plate nesting, computer lofting, pipe spools and numerical control (NC) tape production. To optimise construction efficiency, GPA employs a range of 3D modelling software, which is also beneficial for visualisation and for interference checks.

• Construction management and owner representation: GPA’s staff often manages the construction process for newbuilds, providing owners with engineering expertise that is independent of the shipyard, and conducts surveys and quality inspections. As highlighted elsewhere in this special supplement, GPA remains active throughout the lifecycle of a vessel, as needed by the owner or operator, conducting surveys and providing professional advice, and is available to deliver engineering input if the need arises.

• Unbiased, independent and professional services: remaining independent, GPA is free to develop the best, most suitable design, without undue influence from an enginebuilder or manufacturer. OSJ