How We Deliver
The technology
behind the results.
Three integrated disciplines - survey technology, naval architecture and data intelligence - working together to provide a complete end-to-end service for marine projects of any scale.
Surveying
Capture every dimension. Miss nothing.
We use cutting-edge laser scanning technology to capture accurate dimensional data wherever you need it - on vessels under scaffold, in confined spaces, in remote locations, or anywhere in the world. Our survey data feeds directly into naval architecture and data intelligence workflows, removing the need for repeated site visits and reducing dry dock time significantly.
Survey Methods
Our survey technology.
3D Laser Scanning
Our primary survey method. Phase-based and time-of-flight scanners capture millions of points per second, producing highly accurate point clouds of any structure, vessel or environment.
- Accuracy to within 1-2mm at range
- Full 360 degree capture per scan position
- Colour photography overlay available
- Works in all lighting conditions
- Suitable for confined spaces and working at height
Metrology / Hand Scanning
Portable handheld scanners allow us to capture complex shapes, machinery, components and hard-to-reach areas with a level of detail and flexibility that fixed scanners cannot achieve alone.
- Ideal for complex geometry and components
- Captures undercuts and internal features
- Direct output to CAD-ready mesh
- Used in reverse engineering workflows
Laser Tracking
Laser trackers provide the highest level of precision for alignment, assembly verification and quality control. Used where absolute accuracy is required for critical marine engineering applications.
- Sub-millimetre accuracy
- Shaft alignment and bearing checks
- Propeller and rudder alignment
- Structural deformation monitoring
Total Station
Traditional but highly accurate survey method for establishing control networks, measuring key reference points, and verifying dimensions across large structures such as drydocks and marine facilities.
- Long-range dimensional control
- Dock and facility layout surveys
- Integration with laser scan data
- Geospatial referencing capability
Applications
Where we deploy our survey capability.
Vessel Survey
Full hull, interior and superstructure scanning for refit planning, digital twin creation and as-built documentation.
Marine Facilities
Drydocks, quaysides, sills, tide gates and shipyard structures - as-built survey for maintenance and modification planning.
Confined Space
Tank scanning, void spaces and confined areas using specialist trained personnel and equipment adapted for challenging environments.
Component Capture
Precision scanning of mechanical components, machinery and bespoke parts for reverse engineering and replacement manufacture.
Our Process
From site to deliverable.
Brief & Planning
We discuss the project requirements, access constraints, and deliverable format before mobilising - ensuring the right equipment and team for the job.
On-site Capture
Our surveyors deploy to site and capture comprehensive data. We work around vessel schedules to minimise operational disruption.
Processing
Raw point cloud data is registered, cleaned and processed into a coherent dataset ready for CAD modelling or platform delivery.
Delivery
Final deliverables - point cloud, CAD model, 2D drawings or data platform access - are provided to stakeholders anywhere in the world.
What they can achieve in a short time period is not only far more accurate than existing techniques, the cost savings are also very significant.
Miles Pinchin
M2ED Ltd
Naval Architecture
Engineering expertise. Practical experience.
As qualified Naval Architects and experienced Yacht Captains, we understand the problems faced by ship builders, owners and operators - not just in theory, but from hands-on experience at sea and in the yard. This combination of technical qualification and practical knowledge means we provide solutions that actually work in the real world.
Services
Naval architecture services.
Stability Analysis
Computer-generated stability analysis for commercial and coded vessels. We measure the hull, produce the lines plan, and translate the data into a stability model - keeping vessels in class and operators compliant.
- Intact and damage stability assessment
- Large angle stability analysis
- Load condition modelling
- Stability booklet production
- Class and MCA submission
Hull Modelling
From scan data to accurate 3D hull models. We produce lines plans, hull offsets and full 3D surface models from laser scan data - deliverable in all major CAD formats.
- Lines plan draughting in 2D and 3D
- Hull offset tables
- Surface model creation
- Traditional and classic CAD draughting
- Replica and restoration plans
CFD Analysis
Computational Fluid Dynamics analysis of hull forms and appendages. We use CFD to optimise hull performance, evaluate resistance and identify efficiency improvements before any physical work takes place.
- Resistance and powering prediction
- Appendage optimisation
- Comparative hull form analysis
- Pre-refit performance benchmarking
Digital Twin Applications
We create and maintain digital twins of vessels that bring together the hull model, stability data, structural information and survey data into a single intelligent asset that can be updated over the vessel's lifetime.
- Lifecycle digital twin creation
- Integration with cloud data platforms
- Structural monitoring data integration
- Remote access for owner and operator teams
Both Ben and Oliver are very professional in their approach and very accommodating at short notice. There have been many challenging requests over the years, and they always have a solution.
Colin Binny
Project Manager, A&P Falmouth
Data Intelligence
Complex data. Made accessible.
We use advanced software and data processing methods to depict complex survey and engineering data in a way that can be understood and acted on by all stakeholders - wherever they are in the world. Raw point cloud data becomes structured, searchable, shareable intelligence that delivers value across the full lifetime of a vessel or marine asset.
Services
Data intelligence services.
Cloud-based Data Platforms
We deliver survey data through secure, cloud-hosted platforms that allow owner and operator teams to access, interrogate and share data from any device, anywhere. Multiple data types can be layered into a single intelligent asset record.
- Secure cloud hosting
- Multi-user access with permissions
- Point cloud, CAD, photo, video and document layers
- Measure and annotate within the platform
- Cyber Essentials Plus certified infrastructure
Point Cloud Processing
Raw scan data requires significant processing to be useful. We register, clean, colour and structure point clouds into coherent datasets that feed directly into CAD, BIM and data platform workflows.
- Multi-scan registration and alignment
- Noise and artefact removal
- Colour and intensity mapping
- Export to all major point cloud formats
CAD Modelling
We produce 2D drawings and 3D CAD models from point cloud data in any format required by the client - from simple dimensional drawings to full surface models and assemblies for complex refit and engineering projects.
- 2D drawings in AutoCAD DWG format
- 3D models in Rhino, STEP, IGES and more
- Shipyard-ready refit drawings
- Interior fit-out and equipment layouts
Data Structuring & Archiving
Survey data is only valuable if it can be found, understood and used. We structure and archive deliverables to a consistent standard so that data collected today remains useful and accessible throughout the asset lifecycle.
- Consistent file naming and folder structure
- Metadata tagging and search indexing
- Long-term archive strategy
- Software workflow documentation
The service was first class - on time, on budget and offered a comprehensive professional service. No doubt we will use Digital Dry Dock again.
Hugo Morgan-Harris
Saunders Morgan-Harris Ltd