A general solution to low-aspect-ratio flat-ship theory

A common characteristic of the various methods of modern planing analysis has been the assumption that the Froude number is high enough that gravity has negligible effect relative to convection in the fluid pressure. There are some experimental indications that it is not, with differences conjectured to be due to wave lift and drag associated with the divergent gravity-wave system in the surface flow field generated by the boat. Maruo (Schiffstechnik 72 (1967) 57) presents an integral equation for flat low-aspect-ratio planing hulls. Previous authors have attempted to develop a general solution to this integral equation with limited success. A general solution has been developed and the infamous singularity has been eliminated. The lift coefficients computed with the general solution agree with those presented by previous authors and more realistic (elliptical) pressure distributions have been obtained.