Simulation-Based Prediction of Steady Turning Ability of a Symmetrical Underwater Vehicle Considering Interactions Between Yaw Rate and Drift/Rudder Angle

The prediction of maneuverability is very important in the design process of an underwater vehicle. In this study, we predicted the steady turning ability of a symmetrical underwater vehicle while considering interactions between the yaw rate and drift/rudder angle through a simulation-based methodology. First, the hydrodynamic force and moment, including coupled derivatives, were obtained by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The feasibility of CFD results were verified by comparing static drift/rudder simulations to vertical planar motion mechanism (VPMM) tests. Turning motion simulations were then performed by solving 2-degree-of-freedom (DOF) equations with CFD data. The turning radius, drift angle, advance, and tactical diameter were calculated. The results show good agreement with sea trial data and the effects on the turning characteristics of coupled interaction terms, especially between the yaw rate and drift angle.