Apply Virtual Blade Model (VBM) Techniques to Predict Ship Propeller Performance (ABP)

Explore how the Virtual Blade Model transforms ship‑propeller simulation by delivering fast, reliable performance predictions. This course guides learners to extract, simulate, and interpret VBM inputs using real marine‑engineering scenarios. Learners will walk through hands‑on section‑extraction tasks, mesh setup steps, and side‑by‑side comparisons with 3D CFD and experimental data. By the end, you will be able to confidently apply VBM workflows to accelerate design decisions and improve on‑the‑job propulsion analysis accuracy.

Learning Outcomes:

Following completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose, principles, and efficiency benefits of the Virtual Blade Model (VBM).
• Explain the mesh requirements and domain setup for VBM simulations using prepared example meshes.
• Describe the workflow for generating Cl/Cd curves and interpret provided example datasets.
• Configure and execute VBM simulations in Ansys Fluent® fluid simulation software.
• Compare cylindrical vs. planar blade sections and assess accuracy impacts.
• Interpret thrust, torque, and efficiency predictions against 3D CFD and experimental data.
• Apply VBM effectively for fast marine propulsion analysis and early design decisions.

Prerequisites:

• Ansys Fluent Beyond the Basics

Please note: These training materials were developed and tested in the 2025R2 release.