Split-Flaps – a Way to Improve the Heel Stability of T-Foil Supported Craft

Abstract Horizontal T-foils allow for maximum lift generation within a given span. However, the force on T-foil acts symmetry plane of hull, thereby producing no righting moment. It results in lack transverse stability during foil-borne sailing. In this paper, we propose system, where height-regulating flap trailing edge foil is split into port and starboard part, whose deflection angles are adjusted to shift centre effort force. Similar ailerons which help steering aircraft, split-flaps produce an additional moment stabilizing boat. The improved comes, however, at cost induced resistance. To investigate performance split-flap system new Dynamic Velocity Prediction Program (DVPP) developed. Since it very important evaluation proposed described some detail paper. A complicated effect model DVPP flow slot between two flaps resistance due generated vorticity. Therefore, detailed CFD investigation carried out validate effect. Two applications system: Automated Heel Stability System (AHSS) manual offset increase studied using custom-made double-handed skiff. shown that AHSS can assist sailors while boat unsteady wind conditions. enables adjust difference sailing, thus creating whenever required. Such would be advantage whilst sailing with windward heel. Due from sails could less depowered by resulting faster despite paper control systems ride height heel need decoupled. ends description mechanical satisfies requirement.