Flapping-foil thrusters augmenting ship propulsion in waves

Abstract

Flapping-foil thrusters arranged at the bow of the ship are examined for extraction of energy from wave motions by direct conversion to thrust, offering also dynamic stability and reduction of added wave resistance. In the framework of H2020 Seatech project the above innovation, combined with standard propulsion system based on optimally controlled Dual Fuel engine, is examined, aiming at an increase in fuel efficiency and radical emission reductions. Results from the development and laboratory testing of tank-scale models of the considered biomimetic system and its performance in waves are presented, as obtained by active and passive control. The experiments provide useful data for the calculation of the combined performance with the propulsion system, and establish design requirements and methodologies to extend predictions to large models that will be tested at sea and to full scale.

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ORCID for N. Townsend: orcid.org/0000-0001-6996-3532

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