LR publishes guidance for digital 3D model classification approval

Lloyd’s Register has published what it believes to be the maritime industry’s first dedicated guidance for using digital 3D models in support of classification approval, marking a significant step toward digital-first ship design and review processes.

The new LR-GN-066 Guidance Notes for Digital 3D Models provide shipyards, designers and owners with a practical framework for using intelligent 3D models in place of traditional 2D plans during the early stages of structural plan approval.

The guidance addresses a longstanding gap in the industry, where standards for 2D shipbuilding plans have been well established but comparable frameworks for 3D model use in classification approval have been largely absent.

As 3D models have become the primary source of engineering information across design, construction and manufacturing workflows, the Guidance Notes aim to allow clients to derive greater value from digital assets they already create and maintain throughout a vessel’s lifecycle.

The framework covers file formats, model organisation, metadata requirements, levels of structural detail, revision control and submission requirements, providing a consistent reference for both designers and class reviewers.

Rather than requiring the creation of additional digital assets specifically for class review, the guidance encourages the use of models already embedded within established design and manufacturing workflows, reducing duplication and improving consistency between design, production and approval activities. Use of the Guidance Notes is voluntary and non-prescriptive, with LR acknowledging that alternative methods and technologies capable of delivering equivalent outcomes may be developed by shipyards, designers and software providers.

João Estevens, Senior Specialist at Lloyd’s Register, described the publication as providing clients with greater clarity on how to use existing digital assets to support class approval, noting that for many projects the most complete representation of a vessel now exists in digital model form.

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