Research Background

Aerodynamic Modeling of Magnus Rotors

Published in the Journal of Marine Science and Technology

This simulator models the boundary layer physics and fluid forces acting on a spinning cylinder inside a uniform freestream velocity field. It captures the fluid mechanics principles utilized by modern mechanical rotor sails to provide auxiliary wind propulsion for commercial cargo ships.

Kutta-Joukowski Lift Theorem
$$L = \rho \cdot V \cdot \Gamma \cdot b$$

Where ρ represents fluid density ($1.225 \text{ kg/m}^3$), V is the freestream flow velocity, Γ is the circulation strength ($\Gamma = 2\pi R \cdot V_{\text{tan}}$), and b is the cylinder span length.

Abstract & Boundary Dynamics

By shifting from steady structural setups to highly turbulent flows ($Re \ge 500 \times 10^3$), this application maps boundary layer separation changes and vortex shedding profiles. These factors dictate the net aerodynamic efficiency drops experienced in rough maritime environments.

Interactive Tutorial

How to Use the Simulator

1

Configure Rotor Dimensions

Adjust the Cylinder Length ($L$) and Diameter ($H$) inputs to alter the aspect ratio. The physical mesh dimensions instantly rescale inside the CAD canvas viewport.

2

Track Flow Regime Instabilities

Drag the Airflow Velocity slider to scale the Reynolds Index. Watch the flow field transition from stable LAMINAR trajectories into fluctuating, chaotic cross-axis Z-wobble wake patterns.

3

Analyze Performance Output

Evaluate real-time variations in lift, drag, and tangential speeds. Use the built-in CAD actions header toolbar to save analytical graphics snapshots or export data parameters to a physical CSV spreadsheet document.

Rotor Parameters

Calculated Aerodynamics
Tangential Velocity: 42.1 m/s
Lift Force (L): 145.82 kN
Drag Force (D): 28.45 kN
Flow Regime: LAMINAR
Flow Regime Info
● LAMINAR

Smooth, ordered flow — low mixing

Re = 180×10³
Laminar Trans. Turbulent
ASPECT RATIO (L/H): 3.73