Tackling Modern Sailing Challenges with a CFD-based Dynamic VPP

Abstract

A dynamic Velocity Prediction Program (VPP) integrated in a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code is described. Aerodynamic forces are obtained either through empirical coefficients or interpolated from aerodynamics matrices. These aerodynamic forces are then input to the hydrodynamics CFD solver, which solves both the flow and the motions of the boat, resulting in a closely coupled VPP. For a given True Wind Angle and True Wind Speed a sail power parameter is optimised to obtain the best possible boat speed within heel angle constraints. This approach allows naval architects to swiftly and precisely compare several yacht designs in real sailing configurations using only a few CFD computations. Several advanced features recently added to this program are covered in this paper including convergence criteria, automatic grid refinement, foil fluid-structure interaction, multiple aerodynamics models and rudder control. Results obtained from our CFD VPP on a 40-feet fast-cruising yacht demonstrates promising agreement with other existing VPP polars, affirming the accuracy and reliability of our approach. The CFD VPP presented was also successfully applied to an IMOCA, a 60-feet racing yacht.