Numerical Simulation of the Transient Flow around the Combined Morphing Leading-Edge and Trailing-Edge Airfoil

Area of Science:

• Fluid Dynamics
• Aerodynamics
• Bionics

Background:

• Active flow control is crucial for managing aerodynamic performance, particularly in preventing flow separation.
• Existing methods often focus on single control surfaces, limiting synergistic potential.
• Bionic inspiration offers novel strategies for dynamic flow management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and evaluate the Combined Morphing Leading Edge and Trailing Edge (CoMpLETE) technique for active flow control.
• To investigate the synergistic effects of morphing leading and trailing edges on flow separation control.
• To analyze the aerodynamic performance of a dynamically morphing airfoil inspired by porpoise and cetacean movements.

Main Methods:

• Development of a parameterization model for a morphing airfoil with variable camber.
• Utilizing the transition SST (shear stress transport) model to simulate flow phenomena.
• Experimental evaluation of aerodynamic forces, velocity streamlines, and vorticity contours.
• Investigation of various morphing parameters: location, amplitude, start time, and frequency.

Main Results:

• The CoMpLETE technique effectively reduces adverse pressure gradients, preventing significant flow separation.
• Dynamic adjustment of airfoil camber leads to flow reattachment and increased maximum lift coefficient (cl,max).
• Synergistic morphing of leading and trailing edges shows significant potential in mitigating flow separation compared to individual controls.

Conclusions:

• The CoMpLETE technique offers a promising integrated approach to active flow control.
• Dynamic morphing of airfoil edges significantly enhances aerodynamic performance, particularly lift.
• Bionic-inspired designs provide effective solutions for complex flow management challenges.