Optimisation is a technique that is


increasingly being used throughout the design process. Optimisation routines allow computers to determine the best solution to a mathematical problem based upon input constraints and output criteria. For this, genetic algorithms have been the chosen method. Genetic algorithms work on the principal of Darwinian evolution whereby different topologies are compared against each other. Te fittest of these survive to go on to the next generation. Also, included within this process are mutations and crossovers of different strings, analogous to DNA, and determine the dimensions and layups of the panels. As the generations develop, the fitness for each generation increases until a plateau is reached beyond which, no further increase can be made. At this point the panel has been optimised for both cost and structures within the bounds of the predicted environment. Reliability methods are used to


determine the probability of failure of a product. In the case of composite materials there can be a large difference in the properties of a material based upon the technique used for the build, the yard producing the product and to some extent even the day it was produced. Te effect of the difference in possible material properties should be mapped within the modelling of the structural optimisation to ensure that failure does not occur within the materials being used. Further to this, the compromise between the cost and quality can be more easily investigated using reliability techniques to determine whether craſt need to be built to a certain exact standard or whether a reduction in accuracy may keep the same structural integrity but see reductions in cost.


Design histories Design within the boatbuilding industry is an evolutionary process. Each new design is based upon an old design to increase the rapidity of development but to also create a brand that can be used to market the product. During this process it is a risk that problems originating with the old design can be transferred to the new design. Recording the problems and solutions seen through the versions of a design can be of benefit to designers. Keeping track of the sales, faults and production problems within


Ship & Boat International March/April 2009


the development process can be of benefit when this model reaches a semblance to an old version of a similar design. Te benefits of evolutionary design can


quickly be diminished if the problems and solutions found during previous versions are not elicited during the current design. Many companies bypass this problem through the use of “Design Gurus” or members of the design team who have been employed for many years. However, a loss of this team member from the company means a loss of valuable information and experience. A solution to the problem has been to


create a ‘neural network’, a mathematical sequence to determine and analyse similarities across designs. Tis network can be taught to emulate the designer in the choices of what they think is similar. Te network can then search the design and compare this with all the previous versions of different designs at a much higher speed than a human using the entire history of design versions as its memory. Results for the optimisation process have


been validated against previous work and case studies that will be complete in the near future. Tis optimisation is aimed at increasing the ability of companies to use design for production between structural engineers and production engineers. Tools for concurrent engineering


are being completed to allow the swift exchange of data and information within a company, and in doing so creating an environment where knowledge can be passed on to all members of the design team. Tis process will be expedited by a computer network that databases companies within the industry allowing it to increase the level of service gained from its supply chain. Te amalgamation of these tools within


a communication framework will increase the competitiveness of UK boatyards and develop a framework within which future research can grow. Work is continuing at the University


of Southampton with a focus on more projects on the development of concurrent engineering for the UK boatbuilding industry. Tese areas of research are due to be completed over the next year. Qualitative and quantitative feedback from the industry will be required if these projects are to be immediately successful. SBI


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