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A hybrid method for a module configuration problem in modular adaptable ship design

ABSTRACT Modular adaptable ships use modules to handle uncertainty in the future operating context. Modules are independent subsystems that increase the flexibility of mission selection with affordable reconfiguration, enabling decision-makers to postpone investments until more information becomes available. Although various studies have investigated modular adaptable ships, the design methods should be developed further to consider the economic value of such operational flexibility in a quantitative manner. We therefore present a hybrid simulation-optimisation method to address this issue. The method determines the optimal design of a modular adaptable ship using both simulation-based optimisation and optimisation-based simulation. We implement the method in a case study where we consider different levels of modularity in designing an offshore support vessel. The case study shows that operational flexibility can mitigate risks in early design decisions that are made under uncertainty.