Hull form optimization in the conceptual design stage considering operational efficiency in waves

Abstract

This study focuses on the optimization of ship dimensions by considering hydrodynamic performance in waves. In actual seaways, a ship experiences speed loss due to environmental loads by waves and wind. Therefore, along with calm water resistance, speed loss in waves should be considered in the hull form design in order to improve operational efficiency in waves. However, a trade-off may be needed between total resistance on the ship and the speed loss in waves. To address this problem, Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II, which is a multi-objective optimization method, is used to minimize the total resistance on a ship in seaways and the speed loss by additional resistance. In the optimization process, added resistance is predicted using a numerical method based on slender-body theory, Maruo’s far-field formulation, and an empirical formula for added resistance in short waves. The speed loss in waves, which can be expressed by a weather factor ( fw), is estimated using power–speed curves. This article introduces some examples of the sensitivity analysis of added resistance and speed loss in waves to the variations of ship dimensions. Finally, the optimization solutions on a Pareto front set are compared to a basis ship in terms of hull form, and the corresponding hydrodynamic performances are evaluated.