Research on hydrodynamic performance of a blended wheel-track amphibious truck using experimental and simulation approaches

Abstract

The hydrodynamic characteristics of a blended wheel-track amphibious truck were studied via model towed tests and numerical simulations. First the mathematical model was set up and the process of launching and coming ashore was researched by theoretical analysis. The effect of tracks on assisting driving the truck on land was also studied. Second the influence of buoyancy boxes and bow plate on resistance, trim and sinkage was investigated by towing tank tests and simulation. The buoyancy boxes were designed to get more buoyancy force, and the bow plate was installed to prevent the bow submerged. The expanded buoyancy boxes could increase the resistance at Fr≤0.581, but decrease the resistance at Fr≥0.725. In addition, the sinkage was also increased. The installation of bow plate could reduce the resistance significantly when Fr≤0.436, and with the angle of 25° there was an approximately 3% resistance reduction rate compared with the 20°bow plate. Moreover, the trim was reduced 20.9% with the bow plate angle of 20°, and the pressure distribution on the bow plate at various conditions also confirms this result. Finally, a numerical wave tank was set up, and the seakeeping performance of the amphibious truck was researched.