SUBPMM Test Stand

Measurements with submerged bodies are performed on originals or copies in original size and scale models. The range of test objects extends from submersibles such as ROVs and AUVs to submarines and special investigations of marine life and divers.

To determine the motion behaviour of underwater vehicles in the vertical and horizontal plane, and also for resistance and propulsion tests as well as wake measurements, the SUBPMM (Submarine-Planar-Motion- Mechanism) system is used. What is special about this system is that the measuring points of the forces are placed within the model and hence the influences of the towing device can be eliminated. The system is adaptable for model sizes from 1 to 6m and depths of 0.5 to 2.5m. For driving the models, enclosed motor dynamometer modules are used with different sizes to choose from.

For the determination of the motion behaviour of underwater vehicles, the simple drag motion of the model can be superimposed with an additional level of movement with the SUBPMM system. In addition, the angle of attack of the model as well as the control arms can be varied. Thus, it is possible to determine the coefficients for the equations of motion.

The SUBPMM system is also used for resistance and propulsion tests. For wake measurements a probe with pressure sensors is used which can be adjusted automatically.

In the R&D projects, “Scale Effects in Determining the Manoeuvring Behaviour of Underwater Vessels by Model Testing” [3], “Correlation of Resistance of Submerged Bodies” [1], “Interference Phenomena in Substructures of Submerged Bodies” [2] and “Influence of the Reynolds Number carried out in the Thrust Deduction Fraction”[4] Geosim-tests and calculations for underwater vessels for motion behaviour, resistance and interference phenomena were executed. The results of these studies are incorporated into the correlation for full scale predictions.