Currently, hydrofoil systems are revolutionizing the world of sailing through gains in speed and stability, always pushing further the limits of navigation. This project presents the development, design and manufacturing of a hydrofoil and rudder systems for a 20 feet sport catamaran.
First, the geometry of hydrofoil and rudder systems were defined using a SimMechanics dynamic model developed to study the influence of the geometry of the hydrofoils on the take-off speed and stability of the catamaran. By favoring the best compromise between the take-off speed and stability, the choice of the final geometry allowed us to evaluate loads on the system.
Then, a three-step optimization method was used with the minimization of the composite mass as an objective while limiting the deformation. The first step based on a free-size method to define the most stressed areas. The second step refined the different areas by integrating the manufacturing data. Finally, the third step optimized the order of plies in the composite laminate to facilitate the manufacturing. The expertise acquired during the design of the hydrofoils allowed us to validate the laminate of rudders.
Finally, a prototype hydrofoil and rudder systems was manufactured. Then, it was tested on the ESPADON 20 manufactured by Mystere Composites, and then on the C-CLASS RAFALE catamaran manufactured by a group of students from the École de technologie supérieure. Overall, the composite structure was validated and the dynamic model showed that it could accurately predict take-off speed on both catamarans. A top speed of 26,7 knots was also recorded during 27th Little Cup held on lake Geneva in September 2015 with the C-CLASS catamaran.
| Date | 8 Feb 2016 |
|---|
| Original language | French |
|---|
| Awarding Institution | - École de technologie supérieure
|
|---|
| Supervisor | Simon Joncas (Supervisor) |
|---|
Grossmann, X. (Author),
Joncas (Supervisor),
8 Feb 2016Student thesis: Master's thesis › Master in Engineering: Mechanical Engineering