Conceptual jacket design by structural optimization

Abstract

We present an approach for sizing optimization of jacket structures and apply it to investigate the conceptual design of jackets for offshore wind turbines. Conceptual design is an input to early structural and financial models, and we assume simplified analysis and load models. A four‐legged jacket for the DTU 10‐MW wind turbine in 50‐m water depth is modelled by Timoshenko beam finite elements, and the structural dimensions of the beam cross sections are considered as continuous design variables. A structural optimization problem is formulated to minimize the jacket mass, with constraints on fatigue and ultimate limit states. The optimal design problem is then used to investigate how the optimized mass depends on the number of bays and the jacket leg distance. The conceptual design investigation led to a new conceptual design with 14% lower mass compared with the original conceptual design. We conclude that structural optimization can provide useful insights in the conceptual design phase and lead to a better starting point for the further design and planning processes.

Topology Optimisation in Structural Steel Design for Additive Manufacturing

“…Even though such structural systems usually have a simple and intelligible conceptual design, wave and extreme loading require rather complex engineering [411]. For those reasons, recent developments in the conceptual design optimisation of jackets [412], including geotechnical aspects [413,414] and fatigue design [415] are very significant. Likewise, the method by Cicconi et al [416] for multicriteria optimisation of modular steel towers is expected to have an impact on the industry.…”

Análise De Viabilidade Técnica De Utilização Da Fibra De Bananeira Com Resina Sintética Em Compósitos

“…A combination of methods was made to improve the geometry and, consequently, the separation performance. Sandal et al (2018) presented an approach for sizing optimization (mass minimization) with the application to jackets for offshore wind turbine, which constraints were fatigue and ultimate limit states. Bucher (2018) discussed strategies to have a suitable response surface model, evaluating its quality prediction, and discerning about important and unimportant variables.…”