Before starting any analysis you should check whether Hydromax has been able to correctly interpret your design. The following tools are available to validate the Hydromax model.
§ Checking the Sectional Area Curve
§ Using Rendering to Check the Model
Note:
Sections that are not formed correctly cause the majority
of problems with Hydromax models. Therefore, checking your sections after
opening the design in Hydromax is strongly recommended. Incorrect sections in
the model will
give incorrect results.
These sections should be continuous with no gaps and no unexpected lines. In
particular, look closely at intersections between surfaces to make sure that
Hydromax has interpreted the shape correctly.
In the body plan view, you can step through the sections one-by-one to verify that they have been correctly calculated. This is done by selecting Show Single Hull Section in Body Plan view from the Display menu. You can then click in the inset box to view the sections, the left and right arrow cursor keys will enable you to step through the sections one-by-one. This works the same as the Maxsurf body plan window and is an extremely powerful tool to validate your Hydromax model. For more information see the Maxsurf manual.
Another way of checking the Hydromax model is to perform a specified condition analysis at quite deep draught and look carefully at the sectional area curve in the graph window. If this displays any unexpected spikes or hollows Hydromax may not have correctly interpreted the hull shape. This is not a foolproof method since it does not necessarily highlight problems in the non-immersed part of the hull.
This Cross Sectional Area curve indicates there may be a problem with section forming from 12 m to 16 m.
The model may also be rendered, which makes it easier to see if there are any areas of the model which have not been properly defined. Select Render from the Display menu whilst in the perspective view and turn on the sections:
Note:
In rare instances incorrect rendering may occur. This does not necessarily mean that the model is incorrect. As long as the sections are formed correctly, the model is correct.