Calculation of Wave Resistance and Potential Flow - Computer Program RAPID - MARIN
Calculation of Wave Resistance and Potential Flow - Computer Program RAPID - MARIN
Calculation of Wave Resistance and Potential Flow - Computer Program RAPID - MARIN
RAPID
The computer program RAPID calculates the steady inviscid flow around Restrictions
a ship hull, the wave pattern and the wave resistance. It solves the
The method is based on inviscid flow theory, which excludes the effect
exact, fully non-linear potential flow problem by an iterative procedure,
of boundary layers, dead water zones behind a transom, or flow
based on a raised-panel method.
separation. Consequently, the amplitude of the stern wave system is
Since its initial development, RAPID has been routinely applied in
usually overestimated; very little for slender transom stern vessels,
practical ship hull design. Continuous further development has extended
more for fuller hull forms. The wave resistance prediction is affected by
the applicability and improved the efficiency and accuracy. Today it is
this, and therefore, not fully accurate for the fuller hull forms. However,
one of the best known codes worldwide in the field of resistance and
the wave resistance is good for ranking different hull form designs in an
flow. RAPID forms an integral part of MARIN’s consultancy services
optimisation process. Wave breaking or spray are not modelled.
related to hull form improvements.
Applications
RAPID is used for the minimisation of wave making and wave
resistance, primarily. All features of the wave pattern, hull pressure
distribution and streamline direction over the hull can be visualised.
RAPID is applicable to the great majority of vessels, varying from tankers
and frigates to sailing yachts, and ferries; ships in deep or shallow
water, or even in channels. Extensions have been developed for ships
with lifting surfaces (e.g. keel or rudder), and asymmetric cases.
Accuracy
RAPID has been validated extensively against test results from MARIN’s
model test basins. The predicted flow and wave pattern have been
found to be accurate, and to indicate consistently the quality of a design
and possible improvements. Compared to linearised methods, RAPID
predicts the bow wave height and diverging waves far more accurately.
The predicted wave resistance is generally used in a relative way for the
comparison of two hull forms in a hull form optimisation process.
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Output
The output consists of the velocity and pressure distribution on the hull,
the wave pattern, wave profile along the hull, wave resistance, dynamic
sinkage and trim, actual wetted surface area at speed, far-field wave
spectrum, etc. A visualisation tool gives detailed insight in the character
of the flow, the origin of dominant wave components and possible hull
form improvements. Wave pattern of a container ship.
Top half: RAPID prediction. Bottom half: experiment (KRISO)
Computational approach
The solution of the non-linear free-surface problem is found in an
iterative procedure. The flow field and wave surface are repeatedly For more information please contact the Maritime Simulation &
updated until all boundary conditions are met. The dynamic trim and Software Group;
sinkage of the hull are adapted to balance the hydrodnamic forces and T +31 317 493 237
moments. E [email protected]