About OpenProp

OpenProp is free software for the design and analysis of marine propellers and horizontal-axis turbines. This software is coded as a suite of MATLAB m-files, so it does require MATLAB. OpenProp can be run using a simple graphical user interface, via the MATLAB command line, or with a user-created script.

As of 2012, the OpenProp project has moved from MIT to Dartmouth College. The legacy OpenProp URL (http://openprop.mit.edu) now redirects to this webpage.

The current version can be downloaded here: OpenProp v3.3.4

Capabilities

Design Optimization

  • Lifting line design optimization for axial flow propellers and turbines
  • Blade chord and thickness optimization
  • Ducted rotor design and analysis
  • Parametric design study capability, with analysis over the entire operating profile

Performance Analysis

  • Analysis and prediction of performance curves for a given OpenProp optimized rotor design
  • Analysis and prediction of performance curves for a given rotor geometry
  • Blade cavitation analysis for any converged operating state
  • Blade stress analysis for any converged operating state

Geometry Generation

  • Geometry generation within MATLAB for visual inspection of preliminary blade design
  • Geometry output for 3D modeling in SolidWorks and rapid prototyping (optionally using lifting-surface geometry corrections)