Forward Speed Prediction of a Free-Running Wave-Propelled Boat

Wave-propelled boats utilize submerged flapping foils to convert wave energy directly into propulsion. For platforms that are solely propelled using foils, predicting the forward speed is challenging as it time varying and dependent on coupled responses of wave-induced hull motions (surge, heave, pitch) foil motion (driven by incident wavy flow). To ascertain free-running response wave-propelled boats, this article presents a hybrid discrete time-domain numerical model experimental results from prototype autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) with aft (tandem) foils. Results series experiments in regular head waves, over range frequencies for three different locations, presented used validate model. The was found show good agreement results, capturing dynamics vessel oscillating speed, locations. provide valuable insight design boats.