Efficient shape parameterization method for multidisciplinary global optimization and application to integrated ship hull shape optimization workflow

Multidisciplinary global shape optimization requires a geometric parameterization method that keeps the shape generality while lowering the number of free variables. This paper presents a reduced parameter set parameterization method based on integral B-spline surface capable of both shape and topology variations and suitable for global multidisciplinary optimization. The objective of the paper is to illustrate the advantages of the proposed method in comparison to standard parameterization and to prove that the proposed method can be used in an integrated multidisciplinary workflow. Non-linear fitting is used to test the proposed parameterization performance before the actual optimization. The parameterization method can in this way be tested and pre-selected based on previously existing geometries. Fitting tests were conducted on three shapes with dissimilar geometrical features, and great improvement in shape generality while reducing the number of shape parameters was achieved. The best results are obtained for a small number (up to 50) of optimization variables, where a classical applying of parameterization method requires about two times as many optimization variables to obtain the same fitting capacity.The proposed shape parameterization method was tested in a multidisciplinary ship hull optimization workflow to confirm that it can actually be used in multiobjective optimization problems. The workflow integrates shape parameterization with hydrodynamic, structural and geometry analysis tools. In comparison to classical local and global optimization methods, the evolutionary algorithm allows for fully autonomous design with an ability to generate a wide Pareto front without a need for an initial solution.