Optimization of structural configuration and analysis of dynamic response using Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation for flexible hoses in deep-sea mining system

The arrangement of buoyancy materials significantly affects the spatial configuration of flexible hoses, influencing mining vehicle performance. This paper develops a mechanical model for geometrically nonlinear flexible hoses using the Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation (ANCF) and introduces an ANCF-GA (Genetic Algorithm) coupling algorithm to optimize buoyancy material arrangement for the hose. The study explores the impact of mining vehicle paths on geometric parameters (angles $\alpha$ and $\beta$ between hose ends and the y-axis, and bending angle $\theta$) and mechanical characteristics, including traction forces on the mining vehicle and intermediate warehouse. In static analysis, the ANCF-GA algorithm effectively optimizes the buoy material arrangement for flexible hoses with predefined material properties and geometric dimensions. In dynamic analysis, hydrodynamic forces significantly influence hose behavior. For a constant displacement, the vehicle’s trajectory and velocity minimally affect traction on the intermediate warehouse but strongly influence traction on the vehicle, increasing with speed. Geometric parameters $\alpha$ and $\theta$ exhibit consistent trends, with $\alpha$ decreasing and $\theta$ increasing as the vehicle moves, while higher speeds reduce their rate of change. In contrast, $\beta$ is highly sensitive to trajectory and speed, showing accelerated growth at higher speeds.