The application of particle swarm optimization arithmetic in propeller design

Abstract

In order to obtain a propeller with good efficiency and cavitation performance, the propeller sections were optimization designed using particle swarm optimization (PSO) method. An interactive calculation method was used in design process for the circulation distribution of designed propeller was not coincident with optimization circulation. The difference of circulation was defined as correction factor to adjust lift coefficients of sections. PSO method was used to optimize sections to improve the lift-to-drag ratio and pressure distribution. The convergence condition was the circulation distribution fulfilled optimum circulation distribution form. A MAU propeller was optimized using the method. Hydrodynamic performances of propeller and sections' pressure distribution of original propeller were compared with optimized propeller. It indicates from the results that compared with traditional method, the PSO method is simpler in theory and cost less computing time. The open water efficiency of optimized propeller advanced obviously. The min negative pressure is smaller which means the cavitation performance is better. © 2013 Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.