Numerical methods in the design process of a sailing yacht

Abstract

In this paper most significant steps involved during the whole process of designing a sailing yacht are outlined. At first, a preliminary conceptual design process was implemented in order to fix some boundaries to the problem, then the best solution was found by using numerical simulations. As a general rule, once the target point has been decided, task of the designer is the definition of those systems of aerodynamic and hydrodynamic forces that are in equilibrium when the boat sails at its target. Unfortunately, a multi-purpose yacht does not exist. If the target point is in upwind sailing, then performances will be better for such a condition and worse for others. In the last years, thanks to hardware and software capabilities, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) has become a powerful instrument to numerically compare several solutions instead of much more time-consuming experimental tests. The case study here presented is the design of hull, appendages and sails of a 15” skiff subject to box-rules, designed and manufactured at the University of Palermo. The entire design process has been numerically developed integrating a classical design approach with CFD imulations leading to an efficient solution.