Automated strength analysis for propeller blades

In this paper the modular tool chain is illustrated that enables the Germanischer Lloyd (GL) to cope with heterogeneous design representations handed in for approval by propeller manufacturers. It is applied to perform an automated calculation of the design as precondition for a quick plan appraisal. Various professional engineering tools of the presented approach are interlinked. The Friendship Framework is used to create, examine and mend a parametric geometry representation of the designs. A lifting surface code is applied to determine the hydrodynamic loads for the propeller and ANSYS is used for the calculation of blade stresses. The work-flow and the coupling of the individual software tools are controlled by a set of scripts while the interactive user interface for this controller is again supplied by the Friendship Framework. The pros and cons of this modular approach will be discussed.