HELYX-Marine features two transient mesh-motion solvers for different applications. The 5DoF solver is employed to mimic a towed ship at a constant speed in the model basin by enforcing the surge motion, whereas the 6DoF solver is employed to predict the motion of floating bodies on or near the air-water interface. The 5DoF method is particularly suitable for simulating seakeeping conditions with waves and propulsion, dynamic sinkage and trim and added resistance in waves. With the introduction of self-propulsion models and relative mesh motion in later version of HELYX, it will also become possible to use the 6DoF solver to introduce motion control and dynamic tracking to simulate manoeuvring characteristics.
Sea-keeping CFD analysis of the KCS Moeri hull form showing free-surface elevation.