Application of p-Laplacian relaxed steepest descent to shape optimization in two-phase flows

The paper is concerned with the minimal drag problem in shape optimization of merchant ships exposed to turbulent two-phase flows. Attention is directed to the solution of Reynolds Averaged Navier-Stokes equations using a Finite Volume method. Central aspects are the use of a p-Laplacian relaxed steepest descent direction and the introduction of crucial technical constraints to the optimization procedure, i.e. the center of buoyancy and the displacement of the underwater hull. The example included refers to the frequently investigated Kriso container ship (KCS).