The Design Of Variable Vector Propeller And Research On The Application To Submarine

Variable Vector Propeller (VVP) is a new type thruster, which can be used to provide forces in any directions by adjusting pitch angle periodically. By use of this type of propeller, it makes possible to reduce the number of propellers and consequently to contribute to the compactness and the light weight of ROV or submarine, etc.The hydrodynamic characteristics of Variable Vector Propeller under steady or unsteady conditions are predicted by panel method. Based on existiing model in the panel method theory, the wake model is improved and the effects of tip vortex and decay of vortex panel strength are taken into account successfully. Then, method based on the presented techniques for numeric calculation is provided and the performance under steady or unsteady conditions is investigated and comparisons of calculated results with the experimental data by Japanese researchers and the evaluation based on existing panel method theory are made, which show satisfactory agreement.The pitch control mechanism is devised. The main parameters including exp. area ratio,blade number,collective pitch angle,section profile cyclic pitch angle and rake angle are determined. Then the Variable Vector Propeller test model is devised and all the design plans are provided.The procedure for the model test and the data to be recorded are determined. Finally, the possibility of the application of the VVP to submarine is discussed. The main performances of the submarine equipped with the VVP are analysed in this paper and the feasibility is reported.The devices designed in the paper have been produced and assembled for the succedent model test. The model test will be carried out after the completion of the electronic controlling device and program.