Study of the interference of ship waves of an asymmetric catamaran

The paper is devoted to solving the problem of hydrodynamic optimization of a passenger catamaran designed to organize a ferry crossing in the Curonian Lagoon in order to develop domestic tourism. The main attention is paid to the comparative analysis of asymmetric body configurations known as "IF" (with a flat inner wall) and "OF" (with a flat outer wall), which potentially provide a gain in resistance compared to traditional symmetrical contours. The theoretical basis of the project was the analysis of literature sources, which revealed contradictory data on the superiority of one or another asymmetric scheme, which necessitated an experimental study. The proven Schwetz series (M5-CH) was chosen as the base, providing good seaworthiness. At the next stage, model tests were conducted in an experimental pool. The scale model under test (1:16) made it possible to vary the relative transverse clearance (s/L = 0.20; 0.30; 0.35). The tests of two configurations ("IF" and "OF") were performed in the range of Froude numbers corresponding to speeds of 12–20 knots for a full-scale vessel. The key measured parameters were the towing resistance and wave pattern, and the main evaluation criterion was the interference coefficient of residual resistance. The test results showed that the "OF" configuration with the maximum relative lateral clearance (s/L = 0.35) is optimal for the target high-speed mode (17–20 knots). This scheme demonstrated the lowest residual resistance and the most favorable interference of wave systems, which resulted in the practical absence of noticeable wave formation in the internal space between the housings. This indicates a minimal mutual negative impact of the buildings. Thus, an asymmetric catamaran with "OF" type hulls and maximum transverse clearance is recommended for further design of a passenger ferry for the Curonian Lagoon.

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