Our Products
The Wolfson Unit designs, constructs and sells dynamometry tailored to the towing tank and windtunnel environment. We use our own dynamometry in all our projects and have exported this technology to other hydrodynamic facilities around the world.
In addition, we have developed model testing propulsion systems which include:
- Azimuthing thrusters
- High power jets with reversing buckets
- Surface piercing drives
- Integrated Propulsion System (IPS) drives
- Traditional screw propellers
Our experience with all these measurement and propulsion systems makes us a great candidate for developing bespoke dynamometry or experimental testing equipment.
Azimuthing Thrusters
Azimuthing Thrusters
The Wolfson Unit presents a versatile azimuthing thruster base package for use in self-propelled model testing where analysis of the manoeuvring characteristics is required. Key features are:
- Compact leg and gearbox size allows fitting of a number of different thruster cowling designs
- Adjustable vertical immersion to suit cowling design
- Compact size allows propeller diameter sizing over a large range, allowing a choice of model scale which suits the hydrodynamic facility.
- Robust, simple to fit and commission into a model
- Powerful sensored brushless drive motor for accurate control of propeller RPM
- Standard NEMA 23 stepper motor for control of azimuthing angle
- Full 360 degree rotation (single turn in opposed directions)
- Full waterproof sealing at thruster / hull boundary
Specification
| Maximum thrust gearbox capacity | 150N |
| Maximum gearbox torque capacity | 5Nm |
| Maximum no load shaft RPM (36V) | 4300 |
| Maximum rated motor power | 2000W |
| Motor supply voltage | 24 – 36V DC |
| Motor sensors | 3 x hall effect |
| System gearbox ratio | 1:1 |
| Suggested propeller diameter range | 80 – 130mm |
| Azimuthing range | 360 degrees |
| Vertical adjustment range from thruster CL and hull bottom | 53 – 173mm |
| Maximum hydrostatic pressure head @ prop centre line | 0.5m |
| Azimuthing motor | NEMA 23 stepper motor (113mm) |
| Maximum azimuthing torque | 3Nm |
| Maximum azimuthing motor current @ max torque | 4.2A |
| System mass | 4.5kg |
Towing Tank Dynamometers
Towing Tank Dynamometers
All our dynamometers are fixed in surge and sway and free to pitch and heave. Some specifications are listed below, however dynamometers can be configured to the customer’s requirements with little additional cost.
- Single post design for models up to ~3.5m
- Multi post designs for models >3.5m or for significant yaw moment models.
Specification
| Single Post | 3 Post Ship | 3 Post Sailing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model Types | Sailing and Ship | Ship Only | Sailing and Ship |
| Drag/Thrust Range | 0 – 60N,200N,500N | 0 – 500N | 0 – 500N,1500N |
| Side Force Range | 0 – 60N,200N,500N | NA | 0 – 500N,1500N |
| Roll Moment Range | 20Nm | NA | 100Nm |
| Yaw Moment Range | 20Nm | NA | 500Nm |
| Max Heave | 300mm | 300mm | 300mm, adjustable |
| Max Pitch | 15 deg | 10 deg | 10 deg |
| Yaw and Roll adjustment | Fixed, adjustable | Fixed | Fixed, adjustable |
Wind Tunnel Dynamometers
Wind Tunnel Dynamometers
Model scale sailing yacht wind tunnel testing demands dynamometry that can withstand large roll moments without affecting the accuracy of thrust and sideforce measurements. In response to the lack of suitable off-the-shelf equipment meeting these specifications, the Wolfson Unit took the initiative to develop and manufacture its own sailing yacht aerodynamic testing system, subsequently making it available for commercial use.
- Under floor 6 axis dynamometer
- Single axis cycling drag dynamometer
Bespoke Force and Torque Sensors
Bespoke Force and Torque Sensors
Dynamometers can easily be configured to the customer’s requirements in terms of load/moment ranges and axes of freedom/measurement and physical size.
Bespoke Electro-Mechanical Systems
Bespoke Electro-Mechanical Systems
Our expertise with outfitting remote-control models and onboard data acquisition allows us to create effective custom complex electro-mechanical systems.
- Sensor data logging.
- Torque and force measurement.
- Mechatronics.
- Electric motor drive control.
Get in touch with our engineers to discuss your project needs.
Outboard Thrust Meter
Outboard Thrust Meter
Our outboard engine thrust meter provides an accurate curve of drag against boat speed allowing you to assess the performance improvements to your hull. Clients have used this product to quantify the effect of changes to the hull, changes of displacement and centre of gravity and the effectiveness of additional appendages.
- Measures and logs outboard thrust, speed and trim.
- Simple and fast to fit.
- Up to 350HP/10kN.
- Live display of thrust and boat speed through NMEA 2000.
- 23kg
- IP65/68 environmental protection rating.
- 76mm thickness.
Help and Support
If you need any support with your project, please get in touch.
Related Services
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Full Scale Trials and Instrumentation
Measurements of vessel while completing sea trials. 6 axis motions, forces, moments, accelerations, temperatures, pressures, and engine data.
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Wind Tunnel Testing
The Wolfson Unit offers several wind tunnel experiment services including: measurement of aerodynamic forces and moments, flow visualisation and other measurement techniques (e.g. LDA and PIV).
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Model Basin and Towing Tank Testing
Traditional towing tank experiments, flow visualisation and analysis, wake surveys as well as bespoke tests for the offshore and renewables sector.