An interactive computer program for generation of ship hull surface has been developed using B-splines. It has modules for geometric representations and property calculations. The necessary inputs defining the surface are assumed to be given either by discrete coordinate values or in functional forms describing the surface. Barsky's algorithm is utilized to obtain a set of B-spline control vertices from the discrete points as specified or generated from the given functions.
The block coefficient, the wetted surface area and the longitudinal center of buoyancy are obtained from computational modules. In addition to the perspective views of the generated surface, the program displays longitudinal and vertical direction cross sections, including their geometric properties.
The program has been applied for two cases following two different input procedures. A detailed study of the generated surface in reference to input informations should be made, including the curvature distribution and fairness. Although this program is primarily for visual display of a designed ship hull, it can be expanded as a future topic for prediction of resistance and production design.
