The Next Generation of Shipbuilding

General Physics is bringing advanced physics-driven design into the modern shipbuilding process. Our scientists and engineers are using state-of-the-art CATIA software to manage the cyclic design spiral, integrating cost engineering tools such as Cleopatra for accurate financial modeling. This fusion of advanced software and rigorous methodology allows us to pursue high-performance hulls and propulsion systems with precision and efficiency, while maintaining a clear picture of cost and manufacturability.

The heart of our work plan begins with fixing the main dimensions of the vessel and establishing the design profile. From there, we draw the midship section, check displacement, and define the designed waterline. Each subsequent step—from drawing the transom and iteratively adding new waterlines and sections, to rechecking displacement and the longitudinal center of buoyancy—follows in careful sequence. The design spiral culminates with diagonals and smoothness checks, ensuring that hydrodynamic performance is embedded from the earliest sketches.

This iterative process is enhanced by running in a multi-physics, object-oriented, machine learning environment in CATIA. General Physics is developing new add-ons that expand the back panel with custom tools tailored to hydrodynamics and propulsion analysis. Working closely with naval architects, we are building AI integration software that extends the classic functionality of the planimeter into a modern, adaptive toolset. This combination of physics models, AI learning, and CAD environment allows for a level of precision and efficiency that has not been possible in traditional naval design.

Our scientific team continues to ground these innovations in naval architectural fundamentals. We employ traditional hull form series such as the Delft series and use the Froude number as a key scaling parameter for wave resistance. By analyzing wave damping as a contributor to inertia, and carefully balancing stability, damping, inertia, and buoyancy, we ensure the vessel’s center of gravity is tuned to achieve both safety and performance. These principles remain central even as we push the boundaries with new AI-enabled workflows.

Ultimately, General Physics plans to combine these scientific and engineering advances with modern materials and systems. Hulls will be constructed from aluminum to maximize strength-to-weight performance, while bespoke interiors will be optimized with calculated weights to maintain balance. Cost analysis, powered by Cleopatra, will extend across the vessel—from advanced SMR (small modular reactor) power plants to phased array radar systems—ensuring each innovation integrates seamlessly into a financially viable project. This fusion of tradition and technology defines the General Physics approach to the next era of shipbuilding.