Smart Hydrofoil Project

A hydrofoil is a wing like structure located on the underside of a watercraft, creating a lifting force which lifts the craft out of the water as it gains speed. They increase the fuel efficiency and speed of watercraft, allowing the craft to glide more smoothly over water. Hydrofoil effectiveness is restricted by issues such as cavitation and vortex shedding, causing unwanted vibrations and oscillations on the hydrofoil body. This increases deterioration of parts and watercraft vibrations, which can eventually result in fatigue failure and a decrease in the overall vessel efficiency and speed.

Morphing technology has the ability and potential to reduce vibrations and fatigue in watercraft, increasing hydrofoil efficiency. However, little research has been done into the integration of an electric motor and piezoelectric actuators for morphing edge integration in hydrofoils. The objective of this project is to experimentally and numerically investigate the performance of a morphing hydrofoil which uses piezoelectric actuators driven by electric motors to control trailing-edge hydrofoil deformation. Building on prior numerical work, the intern will modify an existing hydrofoil design for experimental use, fabricate a prototype, and perform controlled experiments to evaluate lift enhancement and vibration reduction of the modified hydrofoil.

Faculty Supervisor:

Patrick C Lee

Student:

Partner:

Arts et Métiers Sciences et Technologies

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Toronto

Program: