Projects
Autonomous Boat Propeller Optimization
Designed, simulated, manufactured, and tested custom propeller geometries to improve the performance and controllability of an autonomous boat.
Overview
As part of a senior design project, our team developed an autonomous boat platform that utilized a flexible shaft propulsion system. Existing propellers were not optimized for our application, so custom propeller geometries were designed to achieve reliable thrust and predictable boat control.
The objective was to create propellers that balanced performance, efficiency, and controllability while remaining compatible with the mechanical constraints of the propulsion system.
My Contributions
- Designed custom propeller geometries in SOLIDWORKS
- Performed CFD analysis using SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation
- Modified blade geometry based on simulation results
- Prepared models for additive manufacturing
- Conducted real-world testing using a remote-controlled boat in a swimming pool
- Evaluated performance through three design iterations and four prototype prints
Process
Three propeller iterations were designed and evaluated using SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation. Simulation results were used to analyze flow behavior around the blades and guide geometry adjustments intended to improve efficiency and overall performance.
Four sets of propellers were manufactured using 3D printing and tested on a remote-controlled boat in a swimming pool. Comparing simulation data with real-world performance helped validate design decisions and refine the final geometry through an iterative engineering process.
The project demonstrated a complete engineering workflow consisting of CAD design, simulation, additive manufacturing, prototype testing, and design refinement.
Tools Used
SOLIDWORKS • SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation • 3D Printing • Prototype Testing