Design methodology in transverse webs of the torsional box structure in an ultra large container ship

Abstract

Container ships has a transverse section in the form of an open profile, making it very sensitive to torsion phenomena. To minimize this effect, a structure known as a torsion box exists, which is subject to high stresses influenced by the fatigue phenomenon and the existence of cut-outs, for the passage of the longitudinal stiffeners, acting as stress concentrators. The aim of this study is to propose a two-stage design methodology to aid designers in satisfying the structural requirements and contribute with to a better understanding of the considered structure. The transverse webs of a torsional box structure are examined by comparing different cut-out geometries from numerical models with different regular load conditions to obtain the variables of the fatigue safety factor through linear regression models. The most appropriate geometry of the torsion box is established in terms of minimum weight, from nonlinear multivariable optimization models.