Significance of parametric hull form definition on hydrodynamic performance optimization

Hydrodynamic performance optimization of ship hulls by CFD methods is becoming popular in modern naval architecture. From local or partial parametric shape optimization, the current frontline of the research is to solve the global hull shape optimization by automatic computational procedures. Key of these procedures is in the parametric hull form modification. Two different techniques are considered in this study: Full parametric hull form definition as opposed to the Free Form Deformation technique. After a general definition, pro and contra of both approached are discussed on the basis of the results obtain in a real hydrodynamic hull optimization example: A high speed round bilge monohulls optimized by means of a panel method for the minimum wave resistance at design speed.