George Zaraphonitis

Optimization of Arrangements of Ro-Ro Passenger Ships with Genetic Algorithms

Abstract A formal multi-objective optimization procedure based on genetic algorithms is applied for the internal compartmentation of Ro-Ro ferries. Attained Subdivision Index, lane meters and steel weight are considered as object functions. Case studies for a typical Ro-Ro ferry yield realistic results and show that the optimization procedure can handle realistic design problems.

GOALDS - goal based damage ship stability and safety standards

The new probabilistic damaged stability regulations for dry cargo and passenger ships (SOLAS 2009), which entered into force on January 1, 2009, represent a major step forward in achieving an improved safety standard through the rationalisation and harmonization of damaged stability requirements. There are, however, serious concerns regarding the adopted formulation for the calculation of the survival probability of passenger ships, particularly for ROPAX and large cruise vessels. The present paper outlines the objectives, the methodology of work and main results of the EU-funded FP7 project GOALDS (Goal Based Damaged Stability, 2009-2012), which aims to address the above shortcomings by state-of-the-art scientific methods and by formulating a rational, goal-based regulatory framework, properly accounting for the damage stability properties of passenger ships and the risk of people onboard.

An Integrated Methodology for the Design of Ro-Ro Passenger Ships

Abstract The present paper provides a brief introduction to the holistic approach to ship design, defines the generic ship design optimization problem and demonstrates its solution by use of advanced optimization techniques. A set of software tools for the parametric design and evaluation of ROPAX vessels has been developed and linked to a multi-objective optimization software, to form an integrated ship-design methodology, facilitating the design space exploration and selection of optimal designs in a rational and efficient way, Zaraphonitis et al. (2007). The present paper focuses on the optimization of design of conventional ROPAX vessels. For an application to high-speed, twin hull vessels, see Skoupas et al. (2009).