Numerical Investigation of Wind Resistance in Inland River Low-Emission Ships

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Abstract
To enhance the navigation efficiency of inland new-energy ships and reduce energy consumption and emissions, this study investigates wind load coefficients under 13 conditions, combining a wind speed of 2.0 m/s with wind direction angles ranging from 0° to 180° in 15° increments. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations, the wind load is decomposed into along-course (CX) and transverse (CY) components, and their variation with wind direction is systematically analyzed. Results show that CX is maximal under headwind (0°), decreases approximately following a cosine trend, and reaches its most negative value under tailwind (180°). CY peaks at crosswind (90°) and exhibits an overall sinusoidal distribution. Certain wind directions produce a compound effect on the hull, particularly when the crosswind angle approaches 90°. Flow analysis reveals that wind generates a high-pressure zone on the windward side and a low-pressure vortex region on the leeward side, inducing unstable forces and increasing energy consumption. Based on the wind pressure distribution, a targeted structural optimization is proposed to mitigate high-pressure resistance. These findings provide a theoretical basis for hull form optimization and energy-efficient ship design.

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