Cross-sectional layout optimization of the umbilical based on the quasi-physical algorithm

Umbilical, as the lifeline of offshore oil and gas resources exploitation, is composed of a variety of functional components. Due to the differences in physical characteristics of components, the compactness, balance and heat source dispersion of different cross-sectional layouts are also different. So, a multi-objective optimization problem is often encountered. In present study, through a quasi-physical method, different functional components are abstracted as the virtual spheres with different properties lied on a funnel surface. A mathematical description is thereby established according to the interaction force of each two neighbored virtual spheres. Based on that, a new cross-sectional layout optimization formulation is proposed, and solved by using the quasi-physical algorithm. Considering the manufacturing and installation, a layered method is utilized to make the results more in line with the actual needs of the project. Finally, the optimization results of the method are verified by numerical simulation. The verification results show that the cross-sectional layout optimization method based on a quasi-physical algorithm can provide a useful reference for practical engineering design. •Through a quasi-physical method, a mathematical description for functional components is established using the interaction force between neighbored virtual spheres.•A new cross-sectional layout optimization formulation of an umbilical is proposed and solved by using the quasi-physical algorithm.•The layering strategy of layer by layer arrangement is introduced to obtain the optimal cross-sectional layout with layering characteristic.•The proposed multi-objective optimization method based on a quasi-physical algorithm can provide a useful reference for practical engineering design.