Numerical and experimental analysis of a high innovative hydrofoil

The hydrofoil is a craft where the weight is entirely supported by the lift generated by the submerged part of wings. The particular structure of the craft requires a thorough study of the architecture of the hull, whose structure differs from others high speed vessels since the lift on wing surfaces are transmitted to the hull in limited areas (wing attacks). The authors have developed a research to optimize geometry of hull and wing system on a hydrofoil capable to carry 250 passengers at a speed of 35 knots, operating among Sicilian island. The principal goals of the new hydrofoil concern both the fuel reduction that the improvement of the comfort in terms of seakeeping and levels of acoustic vibrations. In order to reduce the power engines and the acoustic vibrations and to increase the seakeeping during the cruising route and the takeoff, a thorough study of the bow sections (whose profile contributes during this step to exert a thrust which, added to that provided by the wing surfaces, drastically reduces takeoff times) is conducted. Several experimental tests, performed at the towing tank, have allowed to better define the shapes of the hydrofoil and the profile of the wings. An economic assessment was carried out in order to demonstrate that the innovation effort contributes to reducing both construction that operating costs.