Reducing ships or vehicles boundary flow resistance - by providing surface with contour causing turbulence in boundary layer at expected relative velocity

摘要

The arrangement is intended for reducing the flow resistance generated at the boundary of an object exposed to fluid flow. This is achieved by providing the object with a contoured surface, this contour being adapted to the expected relative flow velocity and to the boundary layer which would occur on a smooth surface at that velocity. This adaptation should be such that the contour produces turbulence in the boundary layer, which reduces frictional resistance. The contours may be produced on foil subsequently applied to the surface or by applying a setting material to the surface and then expose it to fluid flow which automatically produces the required contour.