Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This paper presents a review of active and passive control systems used in planing boats, emphasizing their design, function, and hydrodynamic impact. Control surfaces including trim tabs, stern flaps, interceptors, rudders, hydroplanes, and T-foils are categorized by function (pitch, yaw, roll control) and type (active or passive). Their roles in improving dynamic stability, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency are analyzed. An additional attention is given to their influence on reducing motion-induced discomfort, including motion sickness incidence (MSI), through attenuation of heave and pitch accelerations. A cost assessment contrasts the complexity and operational advantages of active systems with the simplicity and reliability of passive ones. The paper also compares pressure distribution patterns and drag reduction effectiveness of interceptors and trim-tabs using experimental data and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) results. Furthermore, it explores strategies such as stepped hulls for minimizing porpoising instability and provides a procedural overview of fin stabilizer activation mechanisms. A review of many recent published papers offers broad insights into ongoing innovations and applications of control surfaces in high-speed boats. This work aims to support the optimal design and implementation of control systems that balance performance, stability, and onboard comfort.
Authors: Mahdi Karimkhani, Hassan Ghassemi, Guanghua He
Language: English
Subfield: Ocean Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4412378756