APPLICATION OF GENETIC ALGORITHM FOR SHIP HULL FORM OPTIMIZATION

Abstract

A computational method developed for solving the minimum ship wave resistance problem is presented in the paper. The method involves coupling ideas from two distinct research fields: numerical ship hydrodynamics and genetic algorithms. To approach the minimum ship wave resistance problem numerically, the genetic algorithm is coupled with a numerical method for solving the three-dimensional potential flow past a ship moving at constant speed in calm water. The numerical method is based upon a well known Dawson's method. The developed optimization procedure is demonstrated by selecting the Series 60 (C _B =0.60) hull as mother-model for the development of the optimal ship hull forms. The numerical results of optimization procedure indicate that the optimized hull forms yield a reduction in wave resistance.