NAVAL ARCHITECTURE AND MARINE ENGINEERING

Preliminary and contract design, parametric studies, hull geometry, powering, arrangements, stability and compartmentation, shipboard cargo handling systems and manning requirements for self-propelled ships, barges and special purpose craft such as ferries, dredges, derrick barges, paddle wheel casino boats, casino barges and patrol craft are provided.

The design area includes the survey of the owner's specific problems in operation, capacity, economics, etc., followed by the preparation of specifications, solicitation of bids and evaluation, preparation of contract documents, approval of working drawings and surveys during construction. Preparation of working drawings, material lists, schedules and shop details are also rendered as a complete package for builders.

CONVERSION

Arthur D. Darden, Incorporated are specialists in ship conversions. In 1948 the founder undertook the conversion of escort aircraft carriers returning them to cargo vessels. This was followed by the conversion of a T-2 Tanker to an Ocean Surveillance Vessel, the conversion of Victory Ships to a Polaris Missile Re-Supply Ship and a Range Instrumentation Ship. Subsequent projects were the conversion of a large Landing Ship Vehicle (LSV) to a Mine Countermeasures Ship; the conversion of discarded T-2 mid-bodies into large ocean going deck barges - two barges from each mid-body; the conversion of a bulk cargo vessel to a caustic soda tanker; addition of fourteen luxury staterooms to the paddle wheel steamboat MISSISSIPPI QUEEN.

PLANNING AND SCHEDULING

Planning is incorporated within the organization to assure timely completion of a project to meet the client's schedule. Also, planning is extended to the preparation of production schedules for use by the production facility to insure the coordination of the delivery of materials and full utilization of manpower and facilities. The organization is familiar with "Pert" and "Critical Path" methods of scheduling.

STUDIES

Engineering feasibility studies cover the various elements of the economic, technical and safety aspects of a client's particular problem. Technical studies employ computer programs where feasible. Advice on estimates and evaluation of specifications and plans is rendered. This advice is based on a broad background of experience in working with owners and builders.

SERVICES AND ESTIMATES

The staff is qualified and experienced in all types of hull and machinery survey work. Surveys are made for the purposes of condition, valuation, suitability for employment or conversion and ascertainment of the nature and extent of damages.

COMPUTER FACILITIES

AutoCAD software is utilized for the preparation of design drawings and sketches. All basic naval architecture calculations are performed using AutoHydro. Spreadsheet and word processing programs are also utilized on the firm's computers.

OTHER SERVICES

Other professional services offered are: reviewing operational procedures and assisting a client directly within the framework of his own organization; to act as an expert witness in legal matters, hearings, appraisal and evaluation work; to serve as an advisor to investment houses, insurance companies, institutions, or government authorities.

From time to time, as complex projects necessitate, this firm will associate in joint ventures with other firms of a like stature to ensure that the best professional talent possible is brought to bear upon the client's problem.

In all of the above areas, the services of Arthur D. Darden, Incorporated will include all, or any part of, the engineering work associated with a prospective or actual project, such as preliminary investigations, evaluations, and studies; preparation of designs, specifications and drawings; taking and evaluation of bids; preparation of contracts, construction supervision, job cost and inventory records; initial operation; test runs and final acceptance.