Abstract
This paper concerns an algorithmic method for preliminary selection of parameters of ship propulsion system fitted with fixed screw propeller in the case when the ship's operation is associated with significant changes of waterway depth and width, hull resistance of the ship and its service speed. Mathematical model arguments of the considered design problem are main ship design parameters identified in the preliminary design stage. Structure of the formulated model complies with formal requirements for continuous- discrete mathematical optimization problems. The presented examples of application of the method concern an inland waterways ship fitted with compromise screw propeller optimized in the sense of minimization of fuel consumption for passing a given route distance within a given time. The elaborated method may be especially useful in designing such ships as: coasters, inland waterways ships, tugs, pushers, trawlers, mine sweepers, icebreakers etc.