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computcr code more often to dcsign propellers, and arc dcsigning much more
complicated and multifunctional codes. In the early stages of propeller design software,
the code was used for specific functions. For example, the WAOPTPROP codc [16] was
only used for propeller geometry, and the PPT2 code [17] was only used for propeller
analysis. Latcr, computer code, such as the PVL code, was developed to design the
propeller's geometry and simultaneously analyze the pcrfonnance [17]. Subsequently,
enginecrs wanted to combine computer code with CAD software to automatically finish
the propeller's fabrication. For examplc, D'Epagnier created an OpenPVL code [II] not
only for analysis and design, but also to create scripting for 3D printable files using the
CAD softwarc RHI 0, which generates a .STL file that is used to build propellers by
rapid prototyping machines.
In 1991, Hofmann wrote the WAOPTPROI) code using VAX FORTRAN based on lifting
line method [16]. The program calculated the induced velocities at the blade sections
from a non·optimum circulation distribution, the rt.'qllired pitch distribution, and the thrust
and torque coefficients for the design condition. Propeller design used these program
results to detcnnine thc hydrodynamic pitch distribution by comparing the design point
coefficicnt with the pitch distribution. WAOPTPROP can also provide infonnation about
final propeller geomctry. PPT2 was anothcr program writtcn by Hofmann [16] for the
analysis of propeller perfonnance. Finally, WAOPTPROP combined with PPT2 can work
as a fully integratcd propeller design program. However, this design program has two
main disadvantages: it needs two separate programs to achieve the design targct, whereas,
it could be morc convenient to use one program. Another disadvantage is that the final
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