A first-principle mathematical model, designed to analyze parametrically the whole- ship impact of advances in ship technology, is to be developed to a level necessary to demonstrate feasibility as a result of the proposed Phase-I program of work. The model designated PASS for "Parametric Analysis of Naval Ship Systems" will be unique in as much as it will use algorithms derived from first-principle physics rather than from empirical data to characterize all subsystems and their relationship to the overall ship. This will be achieved in order to ensure that new technologies are realistically modeled without being biased by existing trends in ship or ship- subsystem design. In each case, the algorithm will characterize the subsystem by weight, volume, function, cost, efficiency or energy consumption, signatures (covertness), survivability, operational effectiveness and the interface with other ship systems, as appropriate. The overall objective shall be to demonstrate a tool that will recognize the (then) current fleet requirements and operational priorities and permit a realistic assessment to be made of the cost-benefits of emerging technologies. The model will incorporate a friendly user-interface to allow easy-use by non-naval architects and will include an analysis module to help the user interpret the results.
