William Froude ( 1810 - 1878 ) English Engineer and naval architect

creator of the first basin for testing models

Featured in studying hydrodynamics, Froude number ( F r ) Is a dimensionless number linking gravity (g) , velocity (v) and length (L) of vessel:

Fr = V / v (g.L)

While the architects of the time agreed to say that only the real experimentation results could provide applicable, and considered experiments on the models as "nice little fun experiences," William Froude was developing laws similarity and practiced the work on friction.

William Froude to put forth the basic assumption which states that resistance to the progress of vessels is the sum of:

• resistance mainly due to direct wave

This resistance is a function of Froude number

• frictional resistance

This resistance is a function of Reynolds number and roughness coefficient of buoyancy

Although this resistance separation into distinct parts , is theoretically questionable, thus separating the two components and by assuming independent, it is possible to identify rules similarity between displacement resistance of scale models and prototypes of actual size.

similarity

 

Predictions he made on models, verified by the towing of an offshore ship, (Greyhound) were successful in providing resistance to movement of the ship with only 10% below actual observations.

The method models now entering the era of practical applications.

Sketch of W. Froude representing the train of waves due to the bow

Despite advances in theory and methods of computer calculation method remains valid and is practiced today for the design of modern ships