How to import shape data

When designing a new ship, the initial hull model is often created in external design software like Rhinoceros. This 3D model captures the overall geometry of the vessel. However, to take advantage of MasterShip's powerful shipbuilding features, you'll need to import this external shape data into the software.

Importing your shape data is the first step in utilizing MasterShip's capabilities. This shape data is usually a hull model or a superstructure, but it could be any shape. The shape can be defined by different entities, such as lines, surfaces or solids. Therefore, we will use the term 'shape data' to describe the input model. 

This process allows you to convert the external model into a format usable by MasterShip, laying the foundation for further design and analysis within the software.

Importing shape data in MasterShip

Importing shape data into MasterShip is the first step in using the software effectively. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your data is compatible with MasterShip and that your workflow is efficient.

• Have a MasterShip project structure: Use the article 'How to setup a MasterShip project' to get this in place. Using this article, you will get the right setup for starting with an engineering project and streamlining your project information.
• Check the file format of the shape data and import it into AutoCAD: The file format of your shape data must be compatible with AutoCAD. A list of compatible file formats can be found on this website: Autodesk AutoCAD file formats. If your file format is not compatible, you can use the MasterShip Model Exchanger to convert it to a compatible format.
• Place the shape model logically: When importing the shape data into AutoCAD, it is important to position the model logically within the AutoCAD coordinate system. This will make it easier to work with the data in MasterShip. Here are some best recommended practices:
  •  
    • Position the stern or rudder post at (x,y) = 0,0.
    • Position the base of the hull at z = 0.
    • Import only one half of the shape model. Typically the port side, if the model is symmetrical.
• Ensure the shape model contains importable entities: MasterShip can import a variety of shape data entities, including 2D and 3D lines plans, surfaces, solids, and regions. Those last three are the most common nowadays. If your input is a 2D lines plan, then convert it to a 3D surface model first.

Sometimes, your external shape data is in the form of a wireframe model, or a lines plan. In that case, MasterShip will treat the spaces in between the lines as a surface, although this surface is not visible. For this, MasterShip uses the so called 'MasterShip Polyline Technology'. In very rare cases the shape data is even defined with a traditional pencil and paper. Send us a request for the possibilities to import this shape data in MasterShip.

• Import the shape into MasterShip: Once you have imported the shape data into AutoCAD, you can use the SHIPCONVERT2SURFACE command to import it into MasterShip. This command will convert the AutoCAD entities into a format that can be used by MasterShip and store them in the MasterShip Shape Definition (MSD) database.

You can use categories in the SHIPCONVERT2SURFACE command dialog box to specify how the converted data will be named in the MSD database. This can help you to organize your data and make it easier to find later.

With the command SHIPREMOVESURFACES you can also remove surfaces from the MSD.

Outputs and next steps

The imported shape data is the starting point for using MasterShip. Once the data is in the MSD database, you can begin modifying the shape, extracting a lines plan, making a shell expansion, or defining sectional drawings and an assembly.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that your shape data is imported into MasterShip correctly and efficiently. This will save you time and effort downstream in the shipbuilding process.