Full scale finite element modelling and analysis of the 17th-century warship Vasa: A methodological approach and preliminary results

Aging wooden structures in cultural heritage will inevitably need an improved support. A sensible design necessitates a numerical model of the structure to estimate stresses and displacements order evaluate support design. In present work full-scale finite-element 17th-century warship Vasa has been developed. Experiences from this exercise may be use making choices development models for other complex significance heritage. geometrical ship was provided by museum as wireframe model, consisting only lines, points curves. It developed based on geodetic measurements using total station hand details with tapes rules. From three-dimensional comprising solid bodies solid-like parts (i.e. three-layer main hull keel), surfaces shell-like components (deck planks) lines beam-like constituents beams) This geometric then imported into software ANSYS, further stiffeners (knees, riders), pillars masts one-dimensional elements, adjustment correct location deck beams and, finally, structural analyses entire ship. Since deformed geometry is known, were determined result self-weight boundary conditions at contacts only. The are lower than those members. reference state zero gravity situation where reaction forces give rise additional deformations. According geodetical measurements, visual observations calculation centre mass distribution, maximum movement stern. general agreement observations, more pronounced displacement field towards heavier stern addition, highest keel, orlop storage decks appear model.