The effect of appendages on the hydrodynamic characteristics of an underwater vehicle near the free surface

Abstract

An underwater vehicle typically has various appendages such as sail, rudders and hydroplanes. These appendages affect the hull hydrodynamic characteristics, including the resistance components and the form of the generated wave due to the motion of the vehicle near the free surface. The effect of the appendages on the hydrodynamic characteristics of an underwater vehicle near the free surface is studied. Initially the DARPPA SUBOFF submarine without the appendages is selected and hydrodynamic characteristics, including the friction resistance, viscous pressure resistance, wave resistance and shape of the created wave on the free surface are calculated for Froude numbers in the range of 0.128–0.84 and non-dimensional submergence depths 1.3, 2.2, 3.3 & 4.4. Then, by adding the appendages and comparing these two conditions, the effect of appendages is obtained. The results of computations indicate that the appendages cause a mean increase of about 16% in the total resistance. This increment is due to viscosity of fluid and also the interaction of the main hull with the appendages. There are no significant changes in the wave pattern and wave making resistance due to the presence of appendages.