Numerical simulation of planing motion and hydrodynamic performance of a seaplane in calm water and waves

The high-speed motion of a seaplane involves the coupled hydrodynamic and aerodynamic effects. The suction force, pressure, free surface and motion of the seaplane model were numerically investigated to understand the characteristics of the seaplane's planing motion. The study utilized the SST-DDES turbulence model to analyse the coupled hydrodynamic and aerodynamic effects. Overset mesh method and rigid body motion were employed to simulate the high-speed and substantial motion of seaplane. The volume of fluid method (VOF) was used to capture and sharpen the interface between water and air. First, verification and validation (V & V) were performed by comparing the results with those of the towing tank experiments. Second, the air-water entrainment in calm water and free surfaces were presented, and the pressure distribution on the seaplane was analysed and discussed. Numerical simulations were performed while considering the wave parameters of different velocities, wavelengths, and wave heights. The accelerations of the fore, aft, and centre of gravity of the seaplane demonstrated the presence of the suction effect. The evolution of the air-water entrainment at the bottom of the fuselage was observed. The investigation of suction characteristics revealed that the aerodynamic force in waves plays a substantial role in influencing motions of the seaplane.