Design-a-Boat-Tool

Live-run telemetry console

Simulation Complete

Hull:

Material:

Engine:

Record Benchmark

Current measured-mile record: 141.96 m/s

Average Mile Speed:

Peak Speed:

Peak Acceleration:

Peak Net Force:

Starting Mass:

Finishing Mass:

Fuel Burned:

Previous Design

Complete another run to compare designs.

Course Progress
Boat
Speed
Thrust

Simulation View

Fuel
Acceleration
Force Balance Over Time
Speed vs Time
Acceleration vs Time

About this tool

This interface uses the principles of mechanics and motion to show how a powerful boat is likely to perform during an attempt to break the world water speed record.

Engineering foundations

The simulation is based on calculations by Ron Ayers, chief aerodynamicist for the world’s fastest car, Thrust SSC.

Carl Gilkeson, a lecturer at the University of Leeds, adapted Ron’s work for a water speed contender. His approach accounts for hydrodynamics as well as aerodynamics and engine performance. This work provides the foundation for what you see in the interface.

Development of the web interface

Carl supervised Adil Nazareth, a mechanical engineering undergraduate student, who adapted the methods into a web-based tool during a 2024 summer internship.

The work was continued by Freddie Jones, another mechanical engineering student at the University of Leeds, during his 2026 summer internship. Freddie significantly enhanced the interface’s functionality to bring the mechanics of the problem to life.

Design and expert guidance

Freddie received expert guidance from members of the ThrustWSH team. These contributors included Steve Smith, a graphic designer who provided extensive input into the layout and overall visual appeal of the interface.

We hope you enjoy using the interface and that it helps you understand the principles of high-speed marine vehicle design.