Objectives The ship compartment modelling and performance analysis method based on T-splines is investigated in order to improve the flexibility and efficiency during the primary design stage.

Method Firstly the parametric controlling model of compartments is constructed. Secondly the automatic division and simulation linkage is achieved by Rhino & Grasshopper platform with GhPython script and the T-splines plugin. The floatation solution is carried out by using Newton's iterative method , and the stability analysis method with the free surface correction is adopted.

Results Taking a 50 000 DWT oil tanker as example, hull is modelling and the visual division of bulkheads and the calculation accuracy of GZ curve meet the engineering requirements with an error less than 1%.

Conclusions The results indicate that parametric modelling based on T-spline technology and analysis method has strong engineering adaptability and extensibility, which is suitable for rapid assessment of stability performance of multi-schemes at the preliminary design stage, and has a good prospect of engineering application.