2.1.1 The TLA procedure is an optional procedure and is applied on a voluntary
                                 basis.
                                 
                              
                              
                              
                            
                           
                           
                           
                              
                              
                              2.1.2 The
                                 ship’s structure is examined using a total load approach and
                                 stress analysis techniques.
                              
                              
                              
                            
                           
                           
                           
                              
                              
                              2.1.3 The
                                 total load approach applies static, hydrodynamic and inertial load
                                 components to the structure making due allowance for the local structural
                                 configuration. These load components include global and local considerations.
                                 The approach includes load combination factors which enable the total
                                 design loads to take account of the appropriate phase relationships
                                 between the various load parameters, e.g. relative vertical motion
                                 and global bending moment.
                              
                              
                              
                            
                           
                           
                           
                              
                              
                              2.1.4 The
                                 stress analysis techniques predict the total stresses acting in the
                                 structure as a consequence of the total loads. These techniques cover
                                 the assessment of stresses in either primary/secondary plating systems
                                 or grillage systems.
                              
                              
                              
                            
                           
                           
                           
                              
                              
                              2.1.5 The
                                 resulting stresses are then checked against a set of design factors,
                                 which include stress, deflection and buckling requirements.
                              
                              
                              
                            
                           
                           
                           
                              
                              
                              2.1.6 Due
                                 to the nature of the TLA approach it is possible to achieve
                                 the following: 
                                 
                              
                              
                              
                              
                                 - 
                                    
                                    
                                    
Allow the designer
                                       to examine different loading scenarios
                                    
                                    
                                    
                                  
                                 - 
                                    
                                    
                                    
Optimise the
                                       structure towards particular design solutions.