Shape optimisation of trimaran ship hull using CFD-based simulation and adjoint solver

A CFD-based adjoint solver tool is presented to modify the hullform of a trimaran ship. Cost function of optimization process is considered total for resistance of trimaran at cruise speed. Mesh sensitivity gives sensitivity of the cost function associated with mesh deformation. Mesh morphing tool is implemented to alter the geometry without the need to revisit the CAD environment. The position of mesh morphing's control points are the design variables used in the optimization process. The aim of this optimization is to demonstrate the limitations and capabilities of the mesh morphing adjoint-based method for hydrodynamic complex geometries. Based on the numerical findings, a 6.67% reduction in total resistance of the trimaran is observed in a limited number of iterations. Meanwhile, major modification is observed on the side hull. Development of a CFD-based optimization platform with less computational time and effort (five optimization loops) is the result of the present study.