Caponnetto Hueber is using Siemens Simcenter advanced simulation technologies to deliver new levels of hydrodynamic performance gain and sustainability improvements for the Bluegame BGF45 – a 45ft foiling catamaran capable of more than 35kts.
“Applying our hydrodynamic expertise, built in our America’s Cup work, to a commercial vessel requires powerful simulation tools. Siemens’ Simcenter technology allowed us to evaluate concepts quickly, refine the foil assisted architecture and give Bluegame a design that delivers measurable gains in efficiency and comfort,” said Mario Caponnetto, co-founder and technical director, Caponnetto Hueber.
“By combining our racing experience backed up with the Siemens’ advanced simulation technologies, we were able to bring innovation to the BGF45 that simply wouldn’t be achievable through traditional methods.”
“Shipyards must deliver meaningful performance improvements without adding operational complexity for customers. Simcenter’s simulation and digital twin capabilities allowed the BGF45 engineering teams to validate design decisions early and optimize hydrodynamic behavior across real world ocean conditions,” said Mike Croegaert, director of marine solutions – simulation, Siemens Digital Industries Software. “This collaboration demonstrates how advanced simulation can bring racing grade innovation to commercial vessels.”
Caponnetto Hueber and Bluegame adapted learnings from their 50kts hydrogen-powered foiling catamaran (created for the 37th America’s Cup) into a new foil-assisted configuration for the BGF45. Keeping the stern in the water eliminates the need for complex, expensive lift control systems while still reducing drag by up to 30%, exceeding the typical single digit improvements seen in the sector.
Simcenter software for advanced structural simulation and Simcenter STAR-CCM+ software for computational fluid dynamics enabled comprehensive structural analysis, seakeeping studies, maneuvering analysis and fluid structure interaction work. Visualizations of wave impacts, turning trajectories and foil-to-hull vortex behavior created a shared ‘link language’ between engineering teams and the shipyard, driving a more scientific and collaborative approach.
In addition to supporting the development of the hull, Siemens’ Sentron products are integral to the BGF45’s electrification system and enable intelligent management of energy flows through integrated monitoring functions, further contributing to the yacht’s overall efficiency.
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