Mooring pattern optimization using a genetic algorithm

Abstract

In this paper, a constraint Genetic Algorithm is used for the purpose of mooring pattern optimization. The Genetic Algorithm is applied through a mathematical formulation which is introduced to define a typical mooring system optimization problem. The mathematical formulation is used in a case study on a spread moored crane barge, operating in the vicinity of a jacket type platform, in order to minimize its surge motions towards the platform. For this purpose, a set of criteria regarding clearances between anchors and seabed preinstalled facilities (pipelines), and also between the crane barge and the jacket platform are presented and considered. An automatic process of repetitive analyses implementing a MATLAB code as an interface between the Genetic Algorithm and a mooring system analysis program is used, and an optimum solution is resulted by performing 4000 quasi-dynamic analyses in time domain. The effectiveness of the Genetic Algorithm in leading to an optimum mooring system pattern is studied and it is shown that using a proper formulation of the problem, the Genetic Algorithm can be a very useful tool for finding an optimum pattern for mooring systems in fields with constraints on anchor locations and vessel motions