Application of particle swarm optimization theory in skew distribution of propeller

In order to reduce the excitation force of the propeller on a ship's hull surface, a hybrid method of the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) algorithm of the intelligent optimized field and panel method is adopted to optimize the propeller's skew distribution. The mathematical model and main process of the PSO algorithm in the optimization design of the skew distribution is given, and a Seiun-Maru HSP propeller is taken as the prototype. Three different skew distributions are obtained through calculations. The results show that the axial coefficients of thrust and torque for the optimal scheme are reduced significantly at Blade Passing Frequency (BPF) and 2 BPF, while the thrust and torque of the propeller show no such reduction. In brief, optimizing the skew distribution of the blades effectively improves the propeller's performance in unsteady fields, and the PSO algorithm is proven to optimize skew distribution for propeller engineering.