Physics Based Modelling
SEA has an excellent track record in developing advanced simulation applications that can be applied to de-risk complex, expensive or hazardous engineering activities, in order to improve operational safety and effectiveness.
We have successfully demonstrated the application of systems engineering principles to divide complex equipment simulations into federated components, supporting re-use and flexibility.
Our knowledge of industry standards such as the High Level Architecture (HLA) and technical flexibility allows the development of bespoke, physically accurate simulations, which can combine existing software or new applications to generate a powerful solution.
The benefits of accurate physics-based simulations can be applied throughout the project lifecycle, supporting initial engineering design, informing the development of operational limits and entry into service, and also providing input into operator synthetic training.
SEA has built up a toolkit of re-usable simulation components for the Ministry of Defence over many years, providing multiple simulation solutions to numerous projects.
SEA Simulation Toolkit
- 3D Visualisation
- Games engine
- Flow Visualisation Simulation interoperability
- HLA Interface
- SEA’s Common Simulation Framework (CSF) Vehicle Control
- Ship Helm
- Propulsion Mechanical Systems
- Launch & Recovery
- Lifting Gear(s) Hydrodynamics
- Vessel interactions
- Ship Motion Aerodynamics
- Ship Airwake Environment
- Sea Spectra
- Sub-surface Flows
Simulation Interoperability
SEA has led the development in the UK of standards for the production of re-usable and extendable Virtual Ship simulations. This has resulted in a draft NATO Standardisation Agreement (STANAG 4684) and supporting Allied Naval Engineering Publication (ANEP 84), which includes guidelines for the verification and validation of Virtual Ship simulations.
SEA is also a member of the UK Synthetic Environment (SE) Towers of Excellence programme sponsored by the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), providing independent research into simulation and training technologies.
Ship/Air Interface Framework - (SAIF)
The SAIF programme is led by SEA and has developed a suite of simulation tools that integrate advanced aircraft flight dynamics simulations, with models that predict the characteristics of ship platforms.
The resultant system has provided experienced test pilots with a realistic environment in which to assess the safe operating limits of a helicopter operating from a naval vessel, years before the real flight trials can be undertaken. The SAIF architecture can also be applied to the evaluation of Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) launch and recovery operations.
Nato Submarine Rescue System - (NSRS)
A prime example of the use of simulation to improve safety has been the development and use of the NSRS simulation, which models the recovery of a Submersible Rescue Vehicle (SRV) on to a mother ship using a portable launch and recovery system.
SEA developed an independent and validated simulation that allowed the recovery limits of the SRV to be assessed in challenging high sea state conditions. This has allowed the NSRS project team to assess the performance of the equipment without resorting to difficult or dangerous sea trials.
Replenishment at Sea Simulation Capability - (RASSC)
The RASSC simulates the transfer of heavy loads between any chosen supply and receiving ship, and has been developed to support the UK Ministry of Defence in evaluating system performance for future Heavy RAS operations.
Developed by SEA, the system simulates the response of the ships to forces arising from the propulsion, steering, transfer system and the complex hydrodynamic interactions between the two ship hulls.