Beneteau

André Bénéteau was a naval architect and François Chalain in charge of development. For more than 30 years, they cultivated their complementarities and were to give birth to all the BENETEAU ranges and models. Very keen on innovation, driven by their complicity, these two designers were able to create, but also to pass on their know-how. These were the conditions for the success of the business.

 
It is up to our design office to bring to fruition all new boat projects. From 1991, CAD and 3D modelling enabled BENETEAU to significantly reduce the building phases of prototypes. The latest exploits of the Yard have given birth to 5 new yachts in the space of 12 months and this would not have been possible without the help of Catia and Smarteam expert software, developed for BENETEAU by Dassault Systemes. The level of investment is equal to the challenge. The design office now has an overall digital model solution, which significantly accelerates the design phase. The modelling of complex surfaces, optimization of composite parts, space management and the definition of equipment and fittings aboard are all treated simultaneously. Moreover, from the conception phase, all in-house departments but also exterior designers and suppliers share and view the same information. In a few years, we have therefore made considerable headway in terms of innovation, reactiveness, quality and cost control.

The great progress made in 3D modelling now makes it possible to produce a boat model that can be used directly in the making of the mould. Since 2003, the prototype workshop is equipped with a 5 axis digitally controlled robot and can handle all the parts used to make the mould at the same time. It is extremely precise and contributes to gaining precious time.