Multi-Objective Optimization of Internal Compartment Layout of Oil Tankers

This work deals with the design of the internal layout of a shuttle tanker formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem, balancing cargo capacity and minimizing still water bending moment with safety requirements, in particular survivability after damage. A parametric model is used to specify the internal layout of a tanker ship considering a fixed hull shape and regulatory framework. The design variables include positions of watertight members in the internal layout, such as watertight bulkhead position, double-bottom height, and wing tanks width. Merit functions are the minimization of oil outflow parameter, maximization of cargo capacity, and minimization of the longitudinal bendingmoment, which are, respectively, represented for reduction of environmental pollution due to damaged oil tankers, improvement of economic benefits, and safety during operation. The multi-objective genetic algorithm is used for approaching the Pareto frontiers, and the choices between the optimal designs are discussed while introducing a utility function.