Aerodynamic and Hydrodynamic Performance
design for Powerboats

Advanced Research...

by Jim Russell and AeroMarine Research

Advanced research developed through practical simulation in wind tunnel and water channel experimental facilities.  From these leading-edge results, over years of development and full-scale (race hull) testing, advanced marine technology produced engineering relationships and proprietary algorithms that accurately define the unique interaction of hydrodynamic forces with aerodynamic forces of high-performance tunnel hulls, power catamarans, and vee hulls.

Unique experimental results of low-aspect ratio aerofoil/hulls in close proximity ground effect (water surface) were also proven through rigorous, extensive, full-scale testing.

The "most extensive and comprehensive research" ever compiled"..."known worldwide" for a unique library of original laboratory research, expert literature research, computer analysis software, full scale prototype testing and proven by successful race results. 

All performance hulls benefit from aerodynamic contributions. AR® has done the only research that is specifically aimed at examining and optimizing performance powerboat hulls - specifically tunnel hulls and performance vee hulls. 

Ground-effect tests were conducted in a high-speed, sub-sonic, wind tunnel using an 'image-wing' and alternative 'ground-board' methods of testing.

The image-wing technique involves the use of an identical model mounted inverted with respect to the test model.

This additional wing model is, in effect, an image or reflection of the test with the distance between the two wings being equal to 2 X ground height represented. Tests made with the image-wing method have shown to correlate well with results of tests of a model moving over a still surface.

An investigation was performed to predict the performance of close-proximity ground-effect wing models at forward speeds using a surface tank test facility.

This testing was made with the model moving over the water in order to eliminate the effects of wind-tunnel walls and boundary layer of ground boards that sometimes is reported at small ground clearances. For these tests the airfoils were attached to the towing apparatus by a streamlined strut, and Lift, drag and pitching moment recorded.

Water Channel towing-tank experiments are conducted to test and prove complex planing surface  performance and wave-acting performance at high velocities (Froude number).

Testing included wing models with and without end plates, and represented the full range of practical dimensions used in of full scale tunnel hull & power catamaran hull designs - aspect ratio, height above surface, aerofoil length, width, operating angle of attack, and representative velocity range (Reynolds numbers).

Results of extensive testing was correlated with full scale tunnel hull (catamaran) tests that compared real-model characteristics of representative aspect ratio, height above surface and angle of attack with aerodynamic lift, drag and instability, at similar velocities (100ft/sec).

Wing 'End-Plates' represent tunnel hull configuration
in wind tunnel and water channel testing setups.