"A definition of naval architecture"

Headnote

The following article was written at the suggestion of Society president, Jos6Femenia, after he learned that Mr. Ferreiro was doing research on the history of the maritime industry. It is presented here both for the perspective it presents and to stimulate debate.

In the January 1999 newsletter of the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA), the Chief Executive Trevor Blakeley wrote the following lead column:

During my recent visit to the Wuhan International Inland River Transportation Expo '98, 1 was asked by my Chinese interpreter to explain the term "Naval Architecture." It made me realise that I had never seen a definition of that branch of engineering termed naval architecture, or indeed what constitutes a naval architect.

The UK Engineering Council defines engineering as a 'profession directed towards the skilled application of a distinctive body of knowledge based on mathematics, science and technology, integrated with business and management, which is acquired through education and professional development. It is dedicated to developing and providing infrastructure, goods and services for industry and the community.

The Engineer is defined as one who has and uses scientific, technical and other pertinent knowledge, understanding and skills to create, enhance, operate or maintain safe, efficient systems, structures, machines, plant, processes or devices of practical and economic value.

So how today should we define that branch of engineering called Naval Architecture? What is a Naval Architect ? The Royal Institution of Naval Architects can trace its origins back to the Society for the Improvement of Naval Architecture, whose formation in 1791 stemmed from a concern about the apparent superiority of French warship design. However, to simply define the naval architect as one who designs ships would of course be to ignore those who are involved in the many other aspects of maritime technology, including the education of naval architects, whether as Chartered Engineers, Incorporated Engineers or Engineering Technicians, and to whom The Royal Institution of Naval Architects must equally appeal. Also, should professional registration of engineers ever become a statutory requirement to practise, then an acceptable definition of Naval Architect will become essential.

I would welcome suggestions for suitable definitions of Naval Architecture or Naval Architect, and not necessarily only ones which might be required to stand up in a court...