Systematic design optimization of grabs considering bulk cargo variability

Ship unloader grabs are usually designed using the manufacturer’s in-house knowledge based on a traditional physical prototyping approach. The grab performance depends greatly properties of bulk material being handled. By considering cargo variability in design process, can be improved significantly. A multi-objective simulation-based optimization framework is therefore established to include process grabs. primary objective reach maximized and consistent handling variety iron ore cargoes. First, range materials created by varying levels cohesive forces plasticity elasto-plastic adhesive DEM contact model. sensitivity analysis grabbing allowed three classes selected that have significant influence product performance. Second, 25 different designs generated random sampling method, Latin Hypercube Design, assessed as their materials. Of this designs, optimal solutions found surrogate modelling-based NSGA-II genetic algorithm. outcome verified comparing predictions algorithm results DEM-MBD co-simulation. offers straightforward reliable tool for designing other similar equipment.