NRC — Towing tank research facility

Who is eligible?

The grant described is focused on working with industry to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization in the marine engineering and testing sector. Companies involved in the development, testing, and commercialization of marine systems, such as bulk carriers, patrol vessels, sailing yachts, ice breakers, and submarines, among others, would be eligible to apply for this grant. The grant is designed to support companies looking to test and validate their marine technologies using the National Research Council of Canada's towing tank facility.

Eligible expenses

This grant is focused on supporting advanced marine research and testing in controlled environments. Eligible activities involve the evaluation and development of marine technologies and systems using specialized testing facilities.

• Conducting resistance and propulsion tests for marine vessels.
• Performing seakeeping studies to evaluate vessel stability and performance in rough waters.
• Analyzing manoeuvring capabilities of ships and underwater vehicles using planar-motion mechanisms.
• Testing of propeller open water characteristics and hydrodynamic forces.
• Studying motion behaviors of moored and floating marine structures.
• Utilizing dynamic test facilities for underwater vehicle evaluations in six degrees of freedom.
• Carrying out life-saving appliances and human factors testing for safety improvements.
• Developing and testing sailing yacht dynamics and performance with specialized dynamometers.
• Implementing flow visualization techniques and conducting high-definition video analyses for marine systems.

There are evaluation and selection criteria for this grant. The selection process is based on the following criteria:

• Alignment with the grant's objectives and focus areas
• Demonstrated need for the funding
• Feasibility and potential impact of the project
• Applicant's expertise and capacity to carry out the proposed work
• Potential for commercialization and market impact
• Overall quality and clarity of the proposal

Additional relevant details about the NRC's towing tank facility include:

• The facility is equipped with a precision-controlled mobile laboratory that supports a maximum speed of 10 m/s for testing.
• Wave absorption is achieved through a parabolic beach, while eight fans generate wind conditions.
• High-definition video capability synchronized with all sensor data is available for enhanced analysis.
• The facility includes unique equipment such as a large-amplitude planar-motion mechanism, a marine dynamic test facility, and a sailing yacht dynamometer.
• Contact information and location are provided for inquiries and collaboration opportunities.