Advanced numerical methods for PDE constrained optimization with application to optimal design and control of a racing yacht in the America`s Cup

This project focuses on the development, analysis and implementation of efficient numerical optimization algorithms for the optimal design and control of a racing yacht in the America s Cup. The main goal of this project is the optimal design of the hull-keel-winglet configuration subject to constraints on the weight and structural strength in order to minimize the drag and control the wave generation at the water surface. This last issue leads to tracking type problems. The considered optimization problems involve very large and highly coupled system of PDE constraints. For the solution process the main emphasis is given to multilevel optimization, semismooth Newton and interior point strategies for inequality constraints, goal oriented adaptivity for the discretization, efficiency of the solver, and parallel processing. The link to the America s Cup occurs through the function of the first applicant as leader of the Scientific Advisory Board of the competing Shosholoza Team.