How Maritime Organisations Can Develop a Holistic Approach to Shock Mitigation By All Means
The definition of shock mitigation 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 conditions which form waves. Since the 1990’s, focus has mainly been on developing mechanical suspension seats to reduce the effects of vertical accelerations. Areas considers areas requiring further investigation include fore-aft, lateral and vector forces, plus improving seat cushion performance and comfort.
A challenge for the builders of next generation RIBs and high speed craft is delivering platforms that balance high performance with the physical demands on crew and passengers. With the arrival of ‘unbreakable boats’ plus a surplus of engine power ‘man’ is often considered the weakest link. CAD software and digital modelling are key components in the process of designing high speed craft, but feedback from the human body is crucial input that designers and naval architects must consider for the next generation of fast boats. The objective of this paper is to bring together a body of information that end-user organisations and industry can utilize in order to develop a holistic approach to shock mitigation on fast boats.
John Haynes AFNI FRINA - Workshop Lead - Managing Director, Shock Mitigation
John is an Associate Fellow of The Nautical Institute, Fellow of RINA, Commercial Yachtmaster Ocean and Advanced Powerboat Instructor. Subject matter expertise includes 30 years professional sector training, consultancy and strategic product development. He has worked with over 100 organisations including military, SAR, police, commercial operators, designers, OEM equipment manufacturers and boat builders.
He has chaired a broad range of maritime conferences and workshops. Technical papers and specialist articles on future requirements and new technology for international publications include Ship & Boat International (RINA), Defence IQ, Maritime Reporter, Marine Link, Marine News, Maritime Journal, Seaways, Maritime Pilot Journal, Powerboat & RIB, Yachting Matters (Superyacht), Ship & Offshore.
He is founder of the RIB & High Speed Craft Directory which brings together specialist craft, equipment and knowledge for professional maritime operators in the sub IMO / sub 24m sector worldwide. At Seawork 2016 he was voted Maritime Professional of the Year.