Navy 44 Sail Training Vessel Design Improvement Projects

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Navy 44 Sail Training Vessel Design Improvement Projects

A. DeMeyer / M. Arvidson / C. Taylor / P. H. Miller

Three midshipmen, through independent research credit courses and summer internship projects studied potential improvements to the Navy 44-foot sail training vessel. All three projects were initiated based on feedback from various user-groups. The first project studied stability and performance issues. Full-scale inclining and resistance tests were performed on a Navy 44 at the Academy. This data was used in a Velocity Prediction Program to predict potential design improvements. Results indicated a lower center of gravity (CG) keel, combined with a longer waterline and reduced displacement, would produce a safer design with improved performance. A new, low CG keel was designed. The second project studied stiffness, flexural strength and impact resistance of proposed hull laminates. Testing included 4-point flex coupons and two-foot- square impact panels. Results indicated a lighter, stronger, and less expensive laminate than the current laminate is possible. The third project developed a preliminary deck plan that addresses safety and crew-efficiency issues of the current design. The new plan improves safety while providing a more comfortable working environment.