Application of multi-dimensional grouping to building steel stiffened shell structures

In this paper the present state of grouping technology theory is discussed. Attention is paid to lack of publications on grouping methods based on linear operators instead of classical incidence matrices. A computation algorithm for generating three-dimensional groups has been proposed. Every group contains joined structures, working cells and final (output) structures. Operation of the algorithm has been compared with results gained from literature sources dealing with binary grouping. And, calculations based on real assembly sequencing of a set of ship hull sections, have been performed.