Multi-objective structural optimization of ship lock heads using WOA algorithm

This paper aims to evaluate the economic and safety performance of a ship's lock head under maintenance conditions. The geometric and mesh descriptions of the lock head are presented for finite element analysis. A multi-objective structural optimization model is established based on the ship lock head volume and maximum principal tensile stress. Thirty-four parameters are distinguished as design variables for optimization. There are three types of constraints considered in simulation calculations. The whale optimization algorithm is then used to deal with the structural optimization problem. Design variables are continuously updated in positions through the exploitation and exploration stages to obtain the optimal solution. By way of example, the optimal design's volume is reduced by 7.3% compared with the initial design. In particular, the tensile strength of the concrete material is fully utilized.