Work

Unsteady Hydrodynamic Analysis and Experimental Methodology for Voith Schneider Propeller

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The Voith Schneider Propeller (VSP) operates with blades undergoing an approximately sinusoidal periodic motion along a circular path. Hydrodynamically, the continuous significant variation in the angle of attack between the blades and incoming flow, together with additional inertial effects caused by accelerated rotation, complicates the computation and measurement of hydrodynamic performance. To investigate the unsteady hydrodynamic behavior resulting from this coupled motion, a numerical model incorporating adaptive mesh refinement was developed to simulate VSP performance. Based on insights into the interaction between blade motion and hydrodynamics, an experimental platform was designed using servo motors to achieve precise synchronized blade control, enabling mutual validation between numerical simulations and transient hydrodynamic measurements. Results demonstrate that the coupled blade motion induces nonlinear variations in hydrodynamic forces. Rotational power loss limits VSP efficiency, and a negative thrust regime occurs at high advance coefficients. Rapid blade flipping leads to flow separation, identified as the primary cause of nonlinear lateral forces. The consistency between numerical and experimental results provides reliable data supporting theoretical studies. These findings offer valuable insights for optimizing motion control strategies in cycloidal propeller applications.

Source: Journal of Marine Science and Engineering

DOI: 10.3390/jmse13101933

Authors: Wentao Liu, Zhihua Liu, Weixin Xue, Qian Chen

Institutions: Naval University of Engineering, Harbin Engineering University

Language: English

Topic: Ship Hydrodynamics and Maneuverability

Subfield: Ocean Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137