Their main job is to absorb impact energy when a vessel makes contact with a port. Without them, the force of collision could damage ship hulls, infrastructure, and potentially cause accidents. This research focuses on multi-cell fenders, which are designed with multiple internal compartments instead of a single hollow structure. Why is this important? Because these internal cells help distribute impact forces more evenly and improve energy absorption. Using advanced computer simulations—specifically finite element analysis—the researchers tested eight different fender designs under sideways (transverse) loading conditions. They also applied optimization techniques such as NSGA-II and Radial Basis Functions to identify the best design configuration. The results are clear: multi-cell designs outperform traditional single-cell structures. They absorb more energy, reduce peak impact forces, and provide more stable deformation during collisions. Among the tested models, one configuration showed superior performance, highlighting the importance of internal geometry in engineering design. In simple terms, a well-designed fender works like a shock absorber. Instead of allowing a sudden, damaging impact, it gradually absorbs the energy and protects both the ship and the port. This innovation strongly supports Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Life Below Water. Ports and coastal areas are closely connected to marine ecosystems. Poorly managed collisions can lead to oil spills, structural failures, or disturbances that harm aquatic life. By improving the safety and reliability of docking systems, optimized fenders help reduce these risks and protect marine biodiversity. There are also economic benefits. Better fender systems reduce maintenance costs, extend the lifespan of infrastructure, and minimize downtime caused by damage. This is especially important for countries that depend heavily on maritime trade. Another key insight from this study is that design matters as much as material. Even without changing the material itself, adjusting the internal structure can significantly improve performance. This highlights the power of engineering optimization—using smart design to achieve better results without necessarily increasing cost or weight. In everyday terms, this research shows how something as simple as a docking buffer can play a crucial role in global safety and sustainability. It’s a reminder that innovation doesn’t always come in the form of new machines—it can also come from improving what already exists. As global shipping continues to grow, smarter fender designs will be essential—not just to protect ships and ports, but also to safeguard the oceans that connect us all.
