6DoF CFD Analysis for High-Speed Small Craft in Free Running Conditions

CFD simulations of a high-speed small craft are performed with 6DoF motions. The hull form and propulsor are scaled to match a deep V fishing boat (DVFB). The on water experimental data of the DVFB was used for qualitative validation. Many captive and free running conditions are considered including some most critical conditions, such as 2DoF captive motion, free running self-propulsion, turning circles in calm water and waves, acceleration, and avoidance line tests. The present work is the first known CFD study for the free running of high-speed small craft with 6DoF motions and is exploratory in nature. The accuracy and performance of the gear case and propeller models are evaluated with the issues identified. Other issues are also discussed including the optimum grid sizes, submerged depth of the gear case, and instabilities. All of these can be provided as recommendations for the future research improvements.