MARIN performed extensive tests and calculations on the O-foil concept. The results were very positive. At this point in time, the first inland ship with O-foil propulsion and integrated power system is under construction.
The O-foil is expected to be readily available on the market for inland vessels in 2013.
O-foil stands for “oscillating foil”, in other words: a flapping wing. This patented technology, developed by O-foil b.v., is based on the natural swimming motions of animals. The wing generates propulsion by creating lift in the water, just like the conventional screw propeller.
But unlike the screw propeller, the O-foil wing covers the entire width of the ship. As a result, the propulsion surface is much larger. This will result in 50% better efficiency and a cut in fuel consumption by 33 till 50%. The O-foil also reduces CO2 emissions.
[mappress] Press Release, December 7, 2012