Case Study: Matrix Applied Computing achieves faster, more accurate yacht hull draping with MSC.Patran Laminate Modeler

Patran Laminate Modeler Creates Flat Pattern Strips for Hull Materials

Matrix Applied Computing, a New Zealand marine design firm, needed a faster and more accurate way to create flat patterns for composite hull materials on racing yachts. Working with MSC Software and its MSC.Patran Laminate Modeler, the company aimed to eliminate the costly errors and delays of manual paper-pattern draping for complex, curved hull sections.

MSC Software’s MSC.Patran Laminate Modeler was used to translate CAD hull geometry into draping simulations and generate IGES flat patterns for cutting, which were then sent to the material supplier’s NC cutter. The solution delivered about +/-1 mm accuracy on a 16 m hull section, produced a near-perfect fit in testing, saved the boatbuilder hours of work, and helped avoid costly material waste and long lead-time delays. MSC Software also enabled material direction data to be transferred into FEA models for more reliable stiffness optimization.

Matrix Applied Computing

Don Campbell

Senior Consultant