Wave-making simulation of air-cushion vehicle based on mass source method

To solve the wave-making problem associated with air-cushion vehicles, in this study, we numerically simulated the waves generated by air-cushion movement on a computational fluid dynamics software platform. To do so, we simplified the air chamber and used the mass source method to simulate the air supply. In the simulation, the air cushion generated by the mass source method is stable, and a reasonable wave pattern is obtained. The air cushion wave-making resistance can be obtained by integrating the pressure and waveform over the water surface under the air cushion. The two peaks generated by the wave-making resistance with speed variation are captured quickly and accurately, and show good agreement with relevant experimental results and references in the literature. This method is employed to study variations in the wave-making resistance of an air cushion in shallow water. The second resistance peak appears at the position of critical speed. The results show that this method is simple and reliable in simulating the wave making of an air cushion and is effective for calculating the wave-making resistance of air-cushion vehicles. Copyright ©2021 Journal of Harbin Engineering University.