Ship structural component contribution evaluation based on grey target theory

  Objectives  A concept named 'component contribution rate' is proposed to solve problems concerning the influence of ship structure components on ship structure performance.

  Methods  First, a hierarchical structure is elaborated and mapped from structural components to structural performance. Second, the component contribution rate is defined in order to describe the contribution rate for a component in structural performance to fulfill its structural purpose. Next, the grey target theory is applied to quantify the component contribution rate.

  Results  Finally, the application of the proposed method is demonstrated through a SWATH case study.

  Conclusions  This method can be applied in the evaluation of the ship structural schemes, in order to support the optimal design of ship structure.