Optimization and crush characteristic of foam-filled fender subjected to transverse loads

This research analyzed the energy absorption characteristics and crashworthiness design of a regular ship fender structure with varying geometric dimensions such as single foam fender (SFF), empty double fender (EDF), and foam-filled double fender (FDF). Furthermore, the research determined specific energy absorption (SEA) and maximum crushing force efficiency (CFE) of foam-filled fender. To calculate the crash responses, non-linear finite element analysis is carried using the explicit ABAQUS and the result compared to relevant reference. Therefore, this research aims to optimize the crashworthiness indicators of aluminum foam-filled fenders subjected to transverse loads. Multi-objective using NSGA II is applied to obtain the Pareto optimal solutions for maximum Crush Force Efficiency (CFE) and maximum Specific Energy Absorption (SEA). From the optimization result, it is found that FDF has the best performance, however it is recommended to change the conventional fender design. •Numerical simulations of foam filled fender with different configurations under axial loads.•SEA and CFE prediction under different impact angles using Radial Basis Function metamodels and NSGA II.•Multiobjective optimization design (MOD) of axially foam-filled double fender.•Crashworthiness comparison of foam-filled double fender under pure axial impact.