Optimum design and local structural analysis of the power yacht based on micro-genetic algorithm

The optimum design of bow structure of power yacht belongs to the non-linear constrained optimisation problems. The determination of scantlings for the bow structure is a very important issue within the whole structural design process. The derived design results are obtained by the use of real-coded micro-genetic algorithm including evaluation from Lloyd's Register small craft guideline, so that the nominal limiting stress requirement can be satisfied. In this study, the minimum volume design of bow structure on the power yacht was carried out based on the finite element analysis. The target model for optimum design and local structural analysis is the bow structure of a power yacht. The volume of bow structure and the main dimensions of structural members are chosen as an objective function and design variable, respectively. During optimisation procedure, finite element analysis was performed to determine the constraint parameters at each iteration step of the optimisation loop. Optimisation results were compared with a pre-existing design and it was possible to reduce approximately 19% of the total steel volume of bow structure from the previous design for the power yacht.