DNV SIMA 5.2 – Complete Simulation Tool for Marine Operations – From Modeling to Results

DNV SIMA is a simulation and analysis tool for marine operations and floating systems, providing a complete workflow from modeling to post-processing of results . Version 5.2 represents a significant evolution in the platform, building on a robust foundation of dynamic analysis capabilities.

SIMA combines several powerful calculation engines to deliver comprehensive marine simulation. It interfaces with SIMO for multi-body dynamics simulation and RIFLEX for slender structure analysis (mooring lines, risers, and flexible pipes) . This integration allows engineers to model the complex interactions between floating structures and the environment, including waves, current, and wind loading .

The software is developed by DNV – Digital Solutions and has been widely adopted in the offshore industry for engineering studies, installation planning, and research applications. The 5.2 version represents the latest release in the 5.x series, offering enhanced stability and security updates.

Primary Users

DNV SIMA 5.2 is designed for marine engineers, naval architects, offshore structural analysts, and researchers who specialize in the design and analysis of marine operations and floating systems . It serves professionals who:

  • Simulate complex marine operations such as heavy lifting, subsea installation, and towage

  • Analyze floating systems including ships, offshore platforms, and floating wind turbines 

  • Perform dynamic analysis of mooring systems and flexible risers 

  • Model and assess multi-body dynamics in wave environments 

  • Conduct response analysis using RAOs and damping coefficient calculations

Key Features & Capabilities

Complete Simulation Workflow

  • End-to-End Process: From model definition to result visualization and reporting 

  • Multi-Body Dynamics: Simulate interactions between multiple floating or submerged bodies

  • Slender Structure Modeling: Analyze mooring lines, risers, and flexible pipes with RIFLEX

Comprehensive Environment Modeling

  • Regular Waves: Specify direction, phase, period, and amplitude for controlled testing 

  • Irregular Waves: JONSWAP spectrum support for realistic sea-state representation 

  • Current Profiles: Uniform and sheared current modeling for realistic environmental conditions 

Advanced Analysis Capabilities

  • Dynamic Response Analysis: Compute Response Amplitude Operators (RAOs) and dynamic amplification factors 

  • Damping Analysis: PQ-analysis for determining linear and quadratic damping coefficients 

  • Static Analysis: Determine equilibrium positions and reference points for dynamic analysis 

Flexible Modeling Approaches

  • Model Variations: Create multiple variants of a model using parameterization and structural modifications 

  • Copy and Paste: Quick model creation for multiple scenarios 

  • Parameterization: Efficient modeling with less maintenance overhead 

Post-Processing and Visualization

  • 3D Visualization: OpenGL and DirectX rendering for 3D model visualization 

  • Result Export: Comprehensive reporting and data export capabilities

What’s New in DNV SIMA 5.2

The 5.2 release focuses on stability, security, and workflow improvements :

Security Updates

  • Important Security Enhancements: Critical security updates addressing vulnerabilities 

Bug Fixes and Improvements

  • Manager: Fixes for SVG import, XLSX text import dialogue display, and assembly import issues 

  • Web: Bulletin sorting corrected, addressee configuration added, and user unlock issues resolved 

  • APIs: Region inclusion on API calls for signed-in users 

Configuration Changes

  • Minor security updates and configuration refinements