Analysis of the Hulls Floater Distance in the Manoeuvrability of the N219 Floatplane: An Experimental Approach in the Open Water Test

Abstract

Floatplanes necessitate the utilization of floaters that possess the capacity to facilitate aircraft manoeuvring activities, hence safeguarding passengers against potential hazards associated with sea-based crashes. This paper is to analyse the impact of the manoeuvrability of the N219 floatplane on multiple variables, such as the distance between catamaran hulls, trim angle, and cruising speed. The selection of the open-free-running test method for the testing model is based on its advantages, including its costeffectiveness, simplicity, and demonstrated accuracy in yielding reliable outcomes. The floatplane model is outfitted with a remote-control system that is connected through a wireless communication system. The trajectory of the floatplane model is documented using a Global Positioning System (GPS) device, and the collected data is subsequently transformed into a trajectory line for the purpose of enabling analysis. The turning model test is used to find the best hull distance variation out of three options considering the parameters of tactical diameter (TD), advance (A), transfer (T), and radius (R). The tests are undertaken for three different combinations of trim angle and speed. The results show that S/L 0.5 is the ideal distances between the floater hulls while a trim angle of 0°, and a Froude number of 0.064. The condition defines the ratio of parameters and the length of the ship (Lpp), which includes the values of TD/Lpp, A/Lpp, T/Lpp, and R/Lpp as 2.49, 1.59, 1.60, and 1.26, respectively