Gdańsk Tech Student Works on a Hydrofoil That Changes Shape
Szymon Janiak, a student of yacht design and construction at Gdańsk Tech, is working on a hydrofoil that will be able to smoothly change its shape. The solution aims to improve the efficiency of watercraft and may find applications in both sports sailing and water transport in the future. The project is being developed as part of the "Universities of the Future" program.
Szymon Janiak, a student of yacht design and construction at Gdańsk Tech, is working on a hydrofoil that will be able to smoothly change its shape. The solution aims to improve the efficiency of watercraft and may find applications in both sports sailing and water transport in the future. The project is being developed as part of the "Universities of the Future" program.
Hydrofoils are special structural elements mounted under the hull of a watercraft. During motion, they generate lift force that allows the hull to rise above the water surface. This reduces water resistance, enabling the vessel to move faster and consume less energy.
Szymon Janiak aims to develop a hydrofoil utilizing morphing technology, which is the smooth change of shape. The design is intended to adapt to different speeds and loads, while maintaining the ability to withstand the forces encountered during sailing.
– The idea for the project arose from many years of involvement in the sailing community. It is a combination of the engineering aspect and the sport, which is an integral part of my life – says Szymon Janiak.
Hydrofoil that Adapts to Conditions
In solutions using movable elements similar to ailerons used in aviation, changing the profile of the hydrofoil causes creases on its surface. These can promote the formation of turbulence and increase water resistance.
In Szymon's project, the shape change is to occur smoothly, without creating sharp creases. This would help reduce turbulence formation and improve the hydrodynamic properties of the structure under various operating conditions.
Potential applications of the technology include racing sailboats, recreational vessels equipped with hydrofoils, and commercial ships. Its development may in the future help reduce energy consumption, operating costs, and the environmental impact of water transport.
A Challenge for a Young Engineer
One of the biggest challenges is the application of morphing technology in the aquatic environment. Although solutions using smooth shape change are also being developed in aviation, their use in hydrofoils requires further research. It is also important to ensure the structure has adequate strength to withstand the loads encountered during operation.
– Many unknowns need to be examined, new solutions to entirely new problems must be found – the student emphasizes.
The project is currently at the conceptual and preparatory stage. If the work yields the expected results, the next step will be further research and technology development.
Universities of the Future
Szymon Janiak’s project is being developed within the framework of the "Universities of the Future" program, which aims to introduce an innovative approach to the education of undergraduate students. The program is implemented under the leadership of the National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR). Gdańsk Tech, together with 11 partner universities, is implementing a pilot model of personalized education (MES) as part of this program. The initiative is being carried out within the framework of the European Social Fund for 2021–2027.
