A computer tool for optimisation and simulation of marine operations for offshore wind farm installation

Abstract

The installation process of offshore wind farms is complex and requires a high level of coordination, agile scheduling and systematic methods. High risks and costs are involved and especially weather conditions have an impact on the marine operations. A computer tool for optimisation and simulation of marine operations has been developed in close cooperation with a large actor in the offshore wind industry. The tool has a web-based user interface and an optimisation engine that is based on a version of a genetic algorithm and uses an agent-based simulation process to evaluate installation schedules with respect to weather risks, time and costs. The objective is to provide decision support for the early phase planning of wind farm installation by offering an efficient method for estimation of cost and time for future projects.