Optimization of energy saving device combined with a propeller using real-coded genetic algorithm

Abstract

This paper presents a numerical optimization method to improve the performance of the propeller with Turbo-Ring using real-coded genetic algorithm. In the presented method, Unimodal Normal Distribution Crossover (UNDX) and Minimal Generation Gap (MGG) model are used as crossover operator and generation-alternation model, respectively. Propeller characteristics are evaluated by a simple surface panel method “SQCM” in the optimization process. Blade sections of the original Turbo-Ring and propeller are replaced by the NACA66 a = 0.8 section. However, original chord, skew, rake and maximum blade thickness distributions in the radial direction are unchanged. Pitch and maximum camber distributions in the radial direction are selected as the design variables. Optimization is conducted to maximize the efficiency of the propeller with Turbo-Ring. The experimental result shows that the efficiency of the optimized propeller with Turbo-Ring is higher than that of the original propeller with Turbo-Ring.

Keywords

• Propeller
• Turbo-Ring
• Energy saving device
• SQCM
• Hub vortex
• Genetic algorithm
• Optimization