Abstract
A Leg Mating Unit (LMU) is a device utilized during the float-over installation of offshore structures that include hyperelastic pads and mating part. The hyperelastic pads absorb the loads, whereas the mating part works as guidance between topside and supporting structures during the mating sequence of float-over installation. In this study, the design optimization of an LMU for the float-over installation of floating-type offshore structures is conducted to enhance the performance and to satisfy the requirements defined by classification society regulations. The initial dimensions of the LMU are referred to the dimensions of those used in fixed-type float-over installation because only the location and the number of LMUs are known. The two-parameter Mooney-Rivlin model is adopted to describe the hyperelastic pads under given material parameters. Geometric variables, such as the thickness, height, and width of members, as well as configuration variables, such as the angle and number of members, are defined as design variables and are parameterized. A sampling-based design sensitivity analysis based on latin hypercube sampling method is performed to filter the important design variables. The design optimization problem is formulated to minimize the total mass of the LMU under maximum von Mises stress and reaction force constraints.
LMU(Leg Mating Unit)는 해양구조물의 플로트오버 실치에서 활용되는 장비 중 하나로 충격을 흡수하는 부분과 결합부로 구성된다. 본 연구에서는 최적설계를 통해 부유식 해양구조물의 플로트오버 설치용 LMU의 성능을 개선하여 설계 요구 조건을 만족하는 설계를 개발하였다. 초기설계는 고정식 해양구조물의 플로트오버 설치용으로 개발된 것의 제원을 참조하였으며, 초탄성재료의 거동을 표현하기 위해 Mooney-Rivlin 모델을 활용하였다. 설계민감도해석 결과를 바탕으로 중요도에 따라 설계 변수들을 선별하였고, 진화알고리듬 기반 최적설계를 수행하였다. 최적설계 문제에서 목적함수는 LMU의 중량이며, 제약 조건은 LMU에 작용하는 최대 폰-미세스 응력과 LMU의 성능을 평가할 수 있는 반발력이다.