My role was to convert the design drawings into production drawings and oversee the construction of the vessel. 3D modeling greatly helped in visualizing the precise positioning of the plates and provided an overall view of the project from the beginning, both for me and the workshop.
The curvy bow was challenging because it was nearly impossible to bend steel plate in more than one direction. I modeled and had the stiffeners pre-cut to shape so they would be used in bringing the hull plates to the right position (by heating and pulling with chain blocks), without creating gaps to fill or wasting material.
For the pillars I designed the lower pulley assembly system, a simple imbrication of parts for precise positioning before welding. Based on the plate knuckling capability of our contractors, I also designed the general assembly process of the pillars.
Finally, using the vessel was a great feeling. It was really fun to sail and operate in general, so I definitely wish I had more "play time" before handing over to the client. This is me in light blue on the deck during trials.
