An Early-Stage Decision-Making Framework for Mission-Oriented Offshore Patrol Vessel Hull Design Using Comparative Scaling Techniques and Multi-Objective Optimisation
A. Horsky (TU Delft - Mechanical Engineering)
Austin Kana – Mentor (TU Delft - Ship Design, Production and Operations)
Cornel Thill – Mentor (TU Delft - Ship Design, Production and Operations)
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Abstract
This thesis develops and demonstrates a mission-oriented, early-stage design framework for mid-size (40–90 [m]) Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs). The approach integrates hybrid scaling (geometric and targeted parametric variation) with multi-objective optimisation (MOO) in a Systems Engineering / Set-Based Design (SE–SBD) workflow. A parametric parent-hull model was implemented in CAESES and varied in principal dimensions and selected hull parameters. Performance was evaluated using Holtrop–Mennen resistance, intact-stability (GZ) analysis, and strip-theory RAOs aggregated into a multi-heading Seakeeping
Index (SKI). The optimisation process combines Design of Experiments (DoE), surrogate modelling, and a MOGA-based global search. Objectives reflect key drivers (SKI, Stability Index (SI), total resistance RT , and lightweight LW T ), while feasibility is enforced through GM /B limits, roll-period (Troll), and a range constraint.
Verification through hypervolume convergence and trend analysis confirmed robust optimisation behaviour, while validation against tank, CFD, and stability booklet data for a 45 [m] reference OPV demonstrated geometric fidelity and early-stage accuracy. The framework efficiently generates Pareto sets that reveal trade-offs between endurance, comfort, stability, esistance, and weight, supporting mission-aligned design choices.
The main contribution of this work is the development of a robust, adaptive, and mission-driven optimisation framework for OPVs. It explicitly integrates nonlinear scaling effects, dynamic stability criteria, and mission requirements within a single optimisation envelope. Beyond reproducing established naval-architectural behaviour, the framework advances early-stage practice by treating SKI and SI as explicit optimisation objectives and by embedding range and Troll as feasibility constraints. Its adaptive structure allows objectives, variables, and constraints to be tailored flexibly to owner, shipyard, or designer requirements, making it a practical decision-support tool for concept design.