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A major challenge for the builders of next generation RHIBs and high speed craft is delivering platforms that balance high performance with the physical demands on crew and passengers. With the arrival of ‘un- breakable boats’ plus a surplus of engine power, ‘man’ is often considered as the weakest link. CAD software and digital modeling are key components in the process of de- signing high speed craft, but feedback from the human body is a crucial input that designers and naval architects must consider for the next generation of fast boats. Professional organizations using RHIBs and fast boats need to identify what level of sea conditions are likely to be encountered, and then ensure that the type and size of craft are fi t for purpose. The defi nition of shock mitiga- tion is, ‘to make a violent collision or impact less intense.’ A shock mitigation strategy is essential for all craft that undertake open sea transits or operate in rough water. This includes rivers and estuaries with wind against tide condi- tions, and even lakes can produce signifi cant wave heights from wind blowing over a few miles of open water. Shock Mitigation Strategy Planing craft are selected to perform a wide range of op- erations. The consistent objective is that passengers arrive safely at their destination ready to do a job, or in some cases fi t to fi ght. In some countries, increasing individual fi tness and stamina is seen as the solution. In other parts of the world people are expendable as there are others are ready to take their place, but that approach does not help when a boat and crew are underway with a task to complete. With an effective shock mitigation strategy the helmsman, crew and passengers benefi t from increased comfort and reduced injury. But shock mitigation is not just about re- ducing injury. An organization can increase sea time for as- WORKBOATS Next Generation Shock Mitigation for Fast Boats Workboat construction now demands that naval architects factor in the physical demands on passengers and crew. As wind farm requirements increase, so too will the need for greater protections. By John Haynes photo: Shockwave Image above: Multi axis suspension at work in a storm November 2014 70 MN MN Nov14 Layout 66-81.indd 70 10/23/2014 10:45:26 AM
