The use of parametric CAD to revolutionise the design and manufacture of high performance luxury yachts

This paper reports on work undertaken during a Teaching Company Scheme between the University of Plymouth and Pendennis Shipyard Ltd. (PSY) of Falmouth, Cornwall, to reduce lead times, improve product quality, reduce costs and increase sales through the application of an advanced parametric CAD system. The paper describes the company, its products and the competitive environment in which it operates. It discusses the rationale behind the decision to purchase a 3D parametric CAD system and it highlights some of the major implementation issues which have confronted PSY since that decision was made. Finally, the paper presents evidence of substantial productivity gains which have been achieved in the eight months since the system was purchased.