Design, Optimization, and Control of a Hydrofoil System for High-Performance Marine Vessels

This study presents the design, optimization, and control of a hydrofoil system integrated into a Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). The dimensions of the hydrofoil are estimated for a NACA2415 foil set in tandem configuration. The resistance of the vessel is calculated using a combination of Savitsky’s method and normal foil resistance estimation to estimate the powering requirements of the vessel. Subsequently, a maneuvering model is built to evaluate the equilibrium conditions by solving an optimization problem using some defined constraints. Finally, a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) controller is proposed to maintain the optimal Angle of Attack (AoA) for the vessel to foil at a desired operation speed while maintaining consistent ride height and a near-zero pitch angle for better maneuvering of the vessel. The control strategy is validated through simulations. The developed control system performs effectively and the system shows stability and controllability about the equilibrium points.