Biomimetics Design Optimization and Drag Reduction Analysis for Indonesia N219 Seaplanes Catamaran Float

Abstract

Design optimization on the Indonesia N219 seaplane catamaran is necessary to provide better service to rural islands of Indonesia. This research aims at decreasing drag using a design based on biomimicry by imitating the hydrodynamic characteristics of sailfish (Istiophorus platypterus) for pontoon floats. The design is then validated using a numerical fluid test using ANSYS Fluent to see the reduction in drag due to the change from a conventional or Wipeline® 13000 design to a biomimetics adaptation design. Next, further optimization was carried out based on the adaptation design based on trim tests, clearance tests, and deadrise angle dimensions suitable for biomimicry designs at Froude number speeds of 0.4 to 0.7. The design results with the adaptation of biomimicry show that a change in the design with this optimization affects a drag reduction that reaches 30% of the total drag generated by the conventional design.