Development of Preliminary Design Model for Ultra-Large Container Ships by Genetic Algorithm

In this study, we carried out a precedent investigation for an ultra-large container ship, which is expected to be a higher value-added vessel. We studied a preliminary optimized design technique for estimating the principal dimensions of an ultra-large container ship. Above all, we have developed optimized dimension estimation models to reduce the building costs and weight, using previous container ships in shipbuilding yards. We also applied a generalized estimation model to estimate the shipping service costs. A Genetic Algorithm, which utilized the RFR (required freight rate) of a container ship as a fitness value, was used in the optimization technique. We could handle uncertainties in the shipping service environment using a Monte-Carlo simulation. We used several processes to verify the estimated dimensions of an ultra-large container ship. We roughly determined the general arrangement of an ultra-large container ship up to 1500 TEU, the capacity check of loading containers, the weight estimation, and so on. Through these processes, we evaluated the possibility for the practical application of the preliminary design model.