Ship steering control system optimisation using genetic algorithms

The optimisation of non-linear control systems by genetic algorithm is studied in this paper. It involves the performance of two systems for regulating the motion of a ship model. These systems allow Course Changing and Track Keeping through the implementation of a sliding mode controller. The genetic algorithm is used to optimise the performance of the complete system under various operating conditions by optimising the parameters of the sliding mode controller. The type of vessel considered is an oil tanker.