The reduction of displacement ship or boat resistance or drag is being researched. The specific method of reduction is through modification of the pressure field around the vessel by venting areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure via orifices through the side of the hull connected by ducting. The research consists of a combination of model testing on a single hull and analytical analysis utilizing these results as well as additional data available in the literature. General rules are being developed to predict the opportunities for reduction in drag and, consequently, the necessary propulsion power for a spectrum of displacement vessels ranging from boats to the largest ships. The reduction in power is then converted to savings in fuel and fuel costs to exhibit the potential significant commercial and public benefit. The fact that most vessels of all types on the seas of the world are of the displacement type will result in enormous savings in fuel and operating costs to ship and boat operations.The potential commercial application as described by the awardee: The successful completion of the program will lead to the definition of a means by which the resistance of displacement hulls for boats and ships can be reduced. This will yield fuel and, therefore. cost savings to all oDerators of such vessels.
