HULL FORM AND APPENDAGES COMBINED WITH WIND PROPULSORIn the early design stage there are issues for a wind assisted ship that need additional consideration. The operational profile determine the main design characteristics. In this case the consideration specifically includes the dominant wind speed and directions on the intended routes. The desired general arrangement will probably, to a certain extent, dictate the type, size and positioning of (a) wind propulsors(s). Important hydrodynamic choices are then whether to choose for relatively large stability (large beam, low draught), which allows to sustain more wind power but also creates more drag. The alternative is to choose the opposite: a more slender hull, with less resistance, that can, however, support less wind assistance. As main dimensions are fixed, that still leaves the hull form and appendages where two main elements are relevant: the ability to generate side force efficiently (with as little induced resistance as possible) and steering balance. One thing to keep in mind for wind assistance is that additional appendages are not always efficient. These issues can be studied in the early design phase using DESP for empirical resistance predictions and SURSIM for forces in other directions. More detailed analysis can be done with the REFRESCO CFD code.
MODEL TESTSFor verification, model tests are very useful. For maximum accuracy, a large size model can be towed with and without appendages and propulsion. Relevant variations are likely to include several speeds, leeway angles, rudder angles, propeller thrust levels and heel angles. The appendages can be instrumented separately, such that the forces generated by them can be studied in detail.
SPEED-POWER PREDICTIONThe forces determined using preliminary tools, CFD or model tests can be used to create a speed-power prediction (commonly referred to as “PPP”: Power Prediction Program, in analogy to a “VPP” for pure sailing ships). The results show the required propulsion thrust (as below) or power for a certain speed as function of true wind angle and speed. These results show the ideal performance in calm water. It is an easy tool to compare different designs or configurations.
VOYAGE SIMULATIONSIn reality, the apparent wind angle and speed will vary depending on weather, operational conditions and the route. Ultimately, it is only the savings that can be obtained in the expected operational conditions that are relevant. MARIN uses its in-house developed GULLIVER voyage simulation tool to predict the behaviour in detailed hind cast data for wind, waves and current on an actual route over a long time span, to reduce statistical uncertainty. This includes route and speed optimisation, which in several cases can bring additional benefits and a simplistic modelling of the considerations of a captain, who will slow down when (configurable) thresholds of seakeeping behaviour are exceeded. The simulation results contain a large set of parameters, including fuel consumption.Examples of specific topics that can be researched are:
- Certainty of arrival time
- Influence of average speed (e.g. on savings and certainty of arrival)
- Influence of installed engine power
- Difference between specific routes