Computational hydrodynamic analysis of the propeller–rudder and the AZIPOD systems

A computational method has been developed to predict the hydrodynamic performance of the propeller–rudder systems (PRS) and azimuthing podded drive (AZIPOD) systems. The method employs a vortex-based lifting theory for the propeller and the potential surface panel method for the steering system. Three propeller models along with three steering systems (rudder and strut, flap and pod (SFP)) are implemented in the present calculations for the cases of uniform and non-uniform conditions. Computed velocity components show good agreement with the experimental measurements behind a propeller with or without the rudder. Calculated thrust, torque and lift also agree well with the experimental results. Computations are also performed for an AZIPOD system in order to obtain the pressure distributions on the SFP, and the hydrodynamic performance (thrust, torque and lift coefficients). The present method is useful for examining the performance of the PRS and AZIPOD systems in the hope of estimating the propulsion and the maneuverability characteristics of the marine vehicles more accurately.