In 2019, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) received funding under the “Blue Route” programme to research lift control for hydrofoil craft. While theoretical models were an essential part of this project, the university also needed a real-world test platform to validate their findings. That’s where Flying Fish came in: we were asked to design and prototype the Hydrofoil Education and Research Platform (HEARP), a versatile hardware test setup for both controlled tank tests and open-water trials.

Design requirements from Delft University

Together with Delft University of Technology, we defined the key requirements the platform had to meet:

• Suitable for outdoor testing as well as use in the Delft University towing tank.
• Fully self-propelling.
• Equipped with three inverted T-hydrofoils.
• Hydrofoils mountable at variable positions.
• Baseline configuration able to automatically regulate ride height both in the towing tank and in open water.

Additional requirements covered remote control functionality, standardized interfaces, and robust data acquisition.

From concept to prototype

Following a systematic V-model engineering approach, Flying Fish designed and integrated the subsystems of HEARP:

• Hydrofoil modules
• Propulsion module
• Sensor and data processing unit
• Control and actuation systems with two degrees of freedom

We applied modern prototyping techniques, including 3D printing, PCB design, and open-source control platforms, to deliver a flexible and reliable research tool.

Enabling hydrofoil research

Today, HEARP enables researchers and students at Delft University of Technology to study hydrofoil control systems in both the controlled environment of the towing tank and real-life conditions on lakes and open waters. This platform bridges the gap between theory and practice, accelerating innovation in hydrofoil technology.

For more background info: Hydrofoil education and research platform (tudelft.nl)

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