Contemporary UUV Propulsor Design
, while UUV propulsor design has its collection of unique challenges, is it still just a component task within a larger system problem. It can offer a satisfying engineering challenge, one that can be successfully completed with a little care, proper tools, and practical experience.About The AuthorDonald MacPherson, the author.Donald MacPherson, a leading specialist in propulsion system simulation, is HydroComp’s Technical Director, where he oversees all software development and engineering services. A graduate of Webb Institute, he is a Fellow of SNAME and member of its Propulsion Hydrodynamics Panel
Engineering Better Propulsion
“Propeller design has often been considered kind of a black art,” said Donald MacPherson, technical director at HydroComp, Inc. But it’s an art that MacPherson has always had a knack for, and today his company is known as experts in the field of hydrodynamic performance.MacPherson co-founded HydroComp together with managing director Jill Aaron in 1984. The Durham, N.H. based firm’s maritime software and consultancy services have aided a wide range of hull and propeller analysis and design projects – from large commercial ships to unmanned underwater vehicles. For any
February 2025
