Effect of bow hull form on the buckling strength assessment of the corner bracket connection

• Published in: Ocean engineering Vol. 265; p. 112562
• Main Authors: Silva-Campillo, Arturo, Ulla-Campos, Luis, Suárez-Bermejo, J.C., Herreros-Sierra, M.A.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2022
• Subjects: Buckling strength; Conventional bow; Corner bracket; Inverted bow; Optimization; Corner bracket; Buckling strength; Conventional bow; Inverted bow; Optimization
• ISSN: 0029-8018; 1873-5258
• DOI: 10.1016/j.oceaneng.2022.112562

The aim of the paper is to study the influence on the structural strength assessment, in terms of fore end weight, in the conversion process from a conventional to an inverted bow hull of a platform supply vessel under bow flare impact loads. Linear and elastic buckling analyses of the corner bracket connection (deck beam with web frame) located in the fore body are obtained from modifications to its geometry and the inclusion of different stiffening methods. A series of numerical and experimental analyses are undertaken with the design and construction of a new auxiliary structure. The most effective combination (bracket geometry and stiffening method) is established and alternative geometries that optimize the local weight of the corner bracket are proposed by means of topology optimization, obtaining an innovative bracket geometry (omega bracket) that minimises weight while maintaining constant buckling strength. The results obtained establish useful and valuable design criteria that save material and weight to the ship's structure. [Display omitted] •Comparison between conventional bow and inverted bow were established, in terms of bow flare pressure distribution.•The buckling strength assessment of the corner bracket connection in the fore end structure was determined.•A local model of each geometry was carried out to validate the numerical results.•A topology optimization procedure was applied to obtain a new corner bracket geometry (omega bracket).