SRB's SuperYacht

Final Presentation

2009-11-22T18:23:00.002+11:00

Renovatio is 64m (210ft) trimaran designed and commissioned for Sir Richard Branson.

Specifications:

LOA: 64m (210')

Beam: 11.5m (38')

Draft: Max 3.0m (10')

Speed: 25 knots / 28 Knots

Propulsion: Twin Magnetohydrodynamic drives

Year: Mfg-2011 Model-2011

Mfg: DLM Shipyard

Location: Australia

Type: Mega Yacht

Price: $AUD 94,000,000

Renovatio, the flagship of Sir Richard Bransons private vehicle fleet, is a 64m triple-hulled floating palace. With luxury fittings extending from stem to stern, Renovatio is capable of accommodating up to 36 passengers in 18 staterooms. The ships world-class compliment of 21 staff tends to every need and desire while the highly specialised 8-man engineering team maintains one of only 2 privately owned magnetohydrodynamic propulsion systems. The MHD drive allows Sir Richard to travel swiftly to and from his private Caribbean getaway, Necker Island, while the state-of-the-art communications systems allows him to command his vast empire from anywhere on the seven seas.

Finishing..... Finished!

2009-11-22T18:14:00.002+11:00

After finishing all the spray-on painting all that was left to do was to paint in the timber decks by hand. This was done with brush-on acrylics, with several coats of different brown/tan colours to get the right finish. The final timber colours were applied very lightly with a dry brush to try and simulate the grain of the timber.

If I had the cash I would have liked to have the forward and rear decks, and also the helicopter pad, rapid prototyped to match the 2nd level deck. It came out really nice and is one of my favourite pieces of the build.

Finishing - Glass House/DLO

2009-11-17T20:26:00.005+11:00

On the home stretch now...

Here I am masking off the base coats in prep for painting the glasshouse black. This will really help show how much of the top surfaces of the super yacht are covered in glass.

Finishing - Base Colour

2009-11-17T20:08:00.004+11:00

Checking the fit of the rear deck after the first top coat. The Deck railing is made from black acrylic, heated and bent to fit the deck edge. All the glass on the yacht will be presented as black, so the deck railing was made in black acrylic to show that its a glass railing.

After another 3 coats of grey primer were applied (with rubbing back between each coat) before the base colour was applied. I have chosen to go with a metallic gunmetal grey for the main surfaces. I didnt want to have 'just another white yacht' so I thought this would be a bit different.

These photos show the yacht with 3-4 coats of the base gunmetal grey applied. I rubbed back each layer of paint with 1200 wet & dry paper too. The colour seemed a bit bland with the first couple of coats, but each subsequent layer added extra depth to the paint.

Finishing - Primer

2009-11-17T20:02:00.002+11:00

Several coats of spray on primer putty have been applied over the shellac sealer. Each layer was rubbed back with fine wet & dry abrasive paper before the next was applied.

There are about 3 layers of yellow primer putty on the model at this stage, plus the first coat of grey primer.

The grey primer coat has been rubbed back with 1200 wet&dry paper.

Prep for Painting

2009-11-17T19:56:00.004+11:00

Before Shellac

After Shellac

With the surfaces nice and smooth I have started the finishing process. In theses pictures I have sealed the clay with a couple of light coats of shellac. This will (hopefully) allow the subsequent layers of primer and paint to stick to the clay surface.

Final Surfaces

2009-11-17T19:46:00.001+11:00

Here I have finalised the surfaces and slicked them to a smooth clean finish. Using some foam-backed abrasive pads I lightly sanded the clay surface. This helped to highlight any small imperfections still remaining.

This was also the final fit check of the rear deck and staircase set before painting. It wasnt sitting square to the yacht so I removed a little clay until it fitted in snug.

Foil Check.... Check

2009-10-23T15:49:00.003+11:00

Here I have applied foil to the surfaces to check the curvature and finish of the hull and canopy. The foil is quite reflective and has highlighted a lot of bumps, nicks and scratches on what I thought was a reasonably good finish. Good thing I tried it!

I was thinking that I would use this same foil to present the model, but its actually a bit tricky to get it on the surface, and it does do too well on compound curves. Best suited for larger spans of surface. So now I will prep the surface for a painted finish.

Cleaning Up the Surfaces

2009-10-23T15:38:00.002+11:00

With just about all the major surfacing done, I'm now at the stage of trimming surface intersections and smoothing out. Also thinking how I want to finish it for the presentation.

Fitting the RP deck

2009-10-23T15:06:00.002+11:00

With some excess clay trimmed the rear deck fits in snug. Its not shown in these photos but i have trimmed the armature so that the stairs will fit in properly. I just need to build the clay up a little on the lower deck to meet the steps and its done.

And the front 3/4 Presentation Render...

2009-10-09T23:56:00.001+11:00

Presentation Renders

2009-10-08T18:08:00.006+11:00

Final presentation renders. Hope Sir Richard signs off on it!

Front 3/4 to follow....

Rapid Prototyped parts are back!

2009-10-07T14:55:00.003+11:00

A couple of pics to show the rear deck and stairs I had RP'typed for the yacht. Back fresh from the printer so still need to clean the layer of gunk off 'em.

Its so cool that you can takes measurements for the part, model it and have it ready to be picked up within 6hrs start to finish. Makes me smile every time!

Rapid Prototype Part

2009-10-06T11:42:00.003+11:00

As part of the final model deliverables we have been asked to produce a component of the model via 3D modelling, which is to be rapid prototyped. This is a quick render of the rear deck/stair assembly that I will have objet printed then dropped into place on the model.

Surface Refinement

2009-09-26T11:08:00.002+10:00

A few shots showing the new surface treatment. The upper surface of the side has remained the same, while the lower portion to the waterline has been given a subtle convex cross section. It has given the yacht a more aggressive stance and helped define the extended bow point.

Sketch-Overs

2009-09-23T14:03:00.004+10:00

Scanner feeling better... somewhat.

Set one above, with more to follow...

Sketch-Over session = Updated Design Direction

2009-09-23T13:56:00.005+10:00

After doing several pages of sketches over photos of the clay thus far, it was decided that I will change the surface forms. This includes changes to the hull lines and and extending the uppermost section to envelope the cabin.

Its a little hard to see here because the clay blends into itself, but the top lines extending from the bow point pull upwards and continue over and past the bridge, surrounding it in both sides. I will extend these lines past the bridge then possibly run them out/blend them in to the canopy surface.

Matching Surface Symmetry

2009-09-10T13:12:00.003+10:00

These pictures show how I have removed clay down to the points (depth) marked previously. I found that doing it this way (by not removing all the clay at once) would allow me to confirm that the points I had teken were correct and that I was not removing material that shouldn't be.

Trimming down to the Points

This technique seems to have worked for me as the symmetry across the centreline matches...

Transferring Points and Creating Symmetry

2009-09-10T12:30:00.004+10:00

Lines were scored on the smoothed side of the model to create points that I could transfer to the unmodelled side. By using tables squares and rulers I was able to take measurements from the centre line to surface, and also the height above the base of the armature.

Where material needed to be removed on the right of the centreline, I scored a line down to that point, which gave me the depth of material that required removing.

Refining Major Surfaces

2009-09-10T12:16:00.003+10:00

In these photos you can see that I have blocked in and smoothed the major surfaces from which I will reference all others from. The primary surface is the one that rises directly from the waterline (the darker surface), with the secondary being the vertical surface that creates the gunwhale line between it and the top horizontal surface.

A view of the bow showing the difference in material from the reference surfaces on the left and the untouched layers on the right...

A couple of details shots showing the area on top of the canopy. The curved section (in front of the scale figure) will become the bridge, which will connect directly to the helicopter landing pad, where the figure is standing. The material to the left of the centreline has been left in place to allow further development.

Blocking in Major Surfaces

2009-09-04T08:11:00.003+10:00

Here I am starting to block in the major surfaces, starting from the waterline up.

A large section of clay has been removed from the front of the main hull to allow me to sweep the main surfaces better. I would not be able to correctly block the underlying surfaces in with a large chunk of clay in the way, so it was suggested to me to remove that area and reapply it later if required.

More Clay, More Deck

2009-09-04T07:43:00.003+10:00

I have the clay layed up to approx 10-12mm overall by now. I have re-attached the canopy and clayed it also. After fitting ther canopy back on I felt that the upper deck wasnt quite lon enough. It looked a little odd to have such a big canopy and really long lower deck, so I extended the upper deck to help balance it out.

This photo shows a scale human figure (1:100 to match the yacht). By placing it on the model it helps me to visualise features in a more accurate scale.

This shot better shows the extra length I have added to the upper deck and the proportions of the model in relation to the scale figure.

Adding more clay...

2009-08-27T08:08:00.003+10:00

At this stage I have applied about 3-4 layers of clay. Its about 4-8mm thick on the sides and top surfaces. Because I am using screws to hold the canopy on, I was able to take it off to apply the clay to the surfaces beneath (where the t-section of timber is visible). I will then re-attach the canopy and clay the top surface of that.

Using the heat gun to warm the clay surface prior to aplying extra layers of hot clay helps the layers bond to each other and (hopefully) not peel away when I comes time to shape it.

Trying out some surface options

2009-08-24T09:22:00.001+10:00

I've added a bit of form to the side of the primary hull. I like the look of it, not sure if I'll transfer it to the clay model...

Yacht Canopy

2009-08-24T08:18:00.003+10:00

So now I have added the frame work for the canopy. I have made it detachable so I can clay the decks underneath, then re-attach and clay the canopy. I still need to add the fins to the port and starboard to make it a trimaran.

First layers of clay...

2009-08-20T13:30:00.002+10:00

Here is the foam core model with the first couple of layers of clay applied. I still want to make a few changes to the area forward of the bridge, so I have only applied the first layers of clay to the sides. I'll remove som foam to create the forward deck and sunke skylight then continue claying up.

The armature seems to be pretty strong and doesn't move when Im pressing the clay into the foam, so Im real happy with that.

More to follow...

New Front Deck

2009-08-19T16:42:00.002+10:00

The area in front of the bridge was looking a bit plain so I will add a deck out the front. Access is from either port or starboard running boards or directly from the bridge, door to follow.

I have also added a bit of surface detail to the forward skylight.

I'm the King of the World!!

2009-08-18T19:26:00.004+10:00

or..

"this isn't where I parked my Star Destroyer"

Armature Build

2009-08-18T18:06:00.009+10:00

Now that I have chosen a concept to develop and laid out the package for it, I can start the physical build. Now the fun stuff begins!

Here's a few shots of putting the model armature together.

Setting up the right size for the main base board. I had a plan view of the yacht o the paper, and this is the point where I decided I needed to rescale the project. Similar overall dimensions but at a more dramatic scale.

Marking out and trimming the model base board.

The plan view of the yacht, trimaran arms included. These were later removed as they would not sit on the waterline.

Prelim shaping of the foam to fit the model base board.

Gluing the model base board (on top) to the foam. Will then be flipped over when positioned on the armature.

Scribing a 10mm grid over the armature base. I made the centreline a bit heavier so it would be easier to see as I'm modelling.

Shaping out a few more contours of the primary hull. The armature board has been sealed with two coats of shellac.

Working on the model stands. They are pinned with dowels on the top and bottom and fit into corresponding holes on the base of the model and top of the armature base.

Close up of the pins on the armature base. I lined up their centres (x-axis) with the grid. I dont think it is crucial at this stage, but thought it was a good idea to keep everything referenced to the grid. Small piece of mdf is a template I made to help dril the pin holes on all the surfaces.

Detail showing the blocks with pins attached, and the holes in the base of the model board. Plants are looking a bit tired.

Blocks finished. This shows the base of the model (the waterline) sitting at 120mm from the armature base (Build Mode!). This should give me plenty of room to move when it comes to shaping the clay.

The waterline of the model sitting flush with the armature board (Presentation Mode!). By lining up the pins on the model, blocks and armature, the model will always be zero'd to the correct position.

All I need to do now is secure the 3 parts with angle brackets, so that when I start shaping the model won't move around.

ReScale

2009-08-17T10:15:00.003+10:00

So after laying the scale dimensions out on the floor I decided it wasnt big enough. When people see this thing berthed at Kingston, they need to know instanly that it's Sir Richard's, so I have reworked the size of it. It will be approx 68m long overall, standing 9m high from the waterline with a beam of about 25m. That should do it.

Scale model size wil be at 1:100, so a pretty straight conversion to 680mm long x 90mm high x 250mm wide.

Package Layout

2009-08-12T23:23:00.002+10:00

Final Concept Direction....

2009-08-12T22:07:00.005+10:00

The final concept includes a large covered atrium/deck off the back, a central high-positioned bridge and extra glass ove rhte front surfaces to allow light below the deck. Entertainment space extends out across trimaran arms.

2009-08-12T15:28:00.000+10:00

3 Concepts

2009-08-05T14:50:00.008+10:00

Concept 3
Concept 2
Concept 1 - Open rear deck

3D base

2009-08-05T14:50:00.004+10:00

Sometimes if Im having trouble getting the perspective right (particualrley with this project as there are a lot of long sweeps and curves), I create a quick buck in Alias to use as an underlay for my next lot of sketches...

Placing a human figure at the correct scale in the model also helps in getting the proportions and size right.

A lil' bit o' colour...

2009-08-05T14:48:00.003+10:00

More Sketching...

2009-08-05T09:20:00.003+10:00

Space themeboards

2009-08-02T22:25:00.002+10:00

Some of the images that are helping drive my development...

Various images from www.images.google.com

image from www.startrek.com

Closer...

2009-08-02T22:04:00.002+10:00

Looking a bit 'spacier'.

More sketching, pushing it a bit more conceptual...

2009-08-02T21:54:00.003+10:00

Testing different shapes and forms. Will go with a Trimaran (3 hulls) design because it allows me a bit more creative freedom both in development and should make a good looking physical model.

Initial sketches

2009-08-02T21:47:00.003+10:00

These are a few of my initial sketches. Standard yacht shapes, a bit boring. Gotta Trek it up a bit.

Theme Board v1

2009-07-29T16:09:00.001+10:00

Design Requirements

2009-07-29T14:26:00.004+10:00

Ok, so what do I think will be required for this vessel?

There will be two primary functions for this yacht.

1. To entertain business asscociates and colleagues, and;

2. For personal and private use.

With these two factors in mind I am thinking the yacht will be tailored more towards luxury cruising than speed and top-end performance.

This will be mostly an exterior study, however as I progress I might choose to build the model so that it can be opened to see inside.

These are some of the things it will need, off the top of my head...

1. Plenty of open space above and below decks to entertain, party, relax and waste the days away. These spaces should include lots of seating, places to eat and drink (maybe a dance floor for after the drinks). Areas for reading, lounging and talking.

2. Lots of storage and access for all the SCUBA equipment, watersports, boats, PWC's and other recreational gear. Bulkheads that open onto the sea to lauch said gear. Also, a moon pool so he can launch his submarine - you know, the one that he takes to his secret hollowed-out-volcano lair.

3. A communication centre to rival AirForce One. With over 200 hundred companies on almost every continent, the local payphone round the corner aint gonna cut it.

4. Glass everywhere. He'll want to take advantage of the beautiful Carribean views as much as possible. This might include a glass Atrium/greenhouse perched over the back of one of the many decks. This will be a great place to enjoy nature if the wind and weather turn a bit viscious.

5. A Helicopter Pad. For the helicopter.

and just because I can...

6. A few gunports to ward off potential pirates.

So, better get sketching...

Research - Super Yacht Comparison

2009-07-29T14:11:00.003+10:00

This chart gives a good representation to the size of some of the most expensive superyachts. Also included for reference is the RMS Titanic, a Airbus A380 and the vessel that Sir Richard used to brake the speed record for crossing the Atlantic, the Virgin Atlantic Challenger II.

RB's Lifestyle

2009-07-29T11:48:00.007+10:00

Sir Richard's company, Virgin, covers everything from Financial Services to Music Superstores, International Airlines to the soon to be launched Virgin Galactic.

But not everyone can work 24/7, so after a tiring day of meetings and photos with pretty ladies Sir Richard likes nothing more than to retire to his private 74 acre Caribbean island in the British Virgin Islands. You can also hire out the entire island for yourself. US$28,000 per couple, per week.
Small change.

This is why he needs a Super Yacht!

Intro

2009-07-29T11:25:00.005+10:00

Sir Richard Branson

Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Adventurer and Family Man.

It all started back in '68 when Sir Richard produced his first student magazine - "Student".

The Virgin brand started shortly after in 1971, when he set up Virgin Mail Order, a mail-order business selling records. From there the Virgin brand has grown into more than 200 branded companies, with a Global Revenue in 2008 of approx. US$17 billion.