Inverse Methods in the Linearized Theory of Fully Cavitating Hydrofoils

Abstract

Theoretical and numerical procedures are given for the design of fully cavitating hydrofoils in a steady two-dimensional flow. The only boundary in the flow is that provided by the hydrofoil and its cavity. The cavity is always assumed to spring from the nose and trailing edge of the profile. The methods used are those of linearized inverse airfoil theory, in which one prescribes the pressure distribution on the wetted surface of the profile and then calculates its shape. The theory at zero cavitation number is considered anew in order to highlight the physical constraints involved in this inverse problem. However, major emphasis is given to basic procedures for profile design at nonzero or zero cavitation numbers. Optimum hydrofoil design is discussed from an engineering viewpoint.