The comparative research on the VPMM experiment and numerical simulation of the SUBOFF model

Abstract

To ensure optimal maneuvering performance of underwater vehicles, it is essential to obtain highly precise hydrodynamic coefficients for constructing the equations of motion. The principal approach to acquiring these coefficients is through the Planar Motion Mechanism (PMM) test. The subject of this paper is the SUBOFF full appendage model. To obtain hydrodynamic coefficients related to maneuvering motion, a Vertical Planar Motion Mechanism (VPMM) test is conducted in the circulating water tank. In addition, a numerical simulation of the typical pure heaving and pure pitching maneuverability test is performed for the model by programming its motion UDF using Fluent’s dynamic mesh technology. The test results and calculated hydrodynamic coefficients are compared to the data obtained from the Key Laboratory of Underwater Robotics Technology of Harbin Engineering University. The calculation results show high credibility of the test results of the circulating tank VPMM test. The corresponding numerical simulation has a certain practical engineering accuracy, which can break through the limitations of the test and also provides valuable experience and technical reference for the hydrodynamic prediction of other underwater vehicles.