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Numerical simulation study on drag reduction performance of streamline collective model on plane
Guanghao Li1, Gongbo Li1, Xin Fang1
1Department of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266404, China.
The European Physical Journal. E, Soft Matter
|February 1, 2025
Summary
Inspired by fish schools, this study introduces a novel biomimetic method to reduce underwater vehicle drag. Collective streamlined models significantly decrease viscous drag, achieving up to 8.63% drag reduction.
Area of Science:
- Fluid Dynamics
- Biomimetics
- Naval Architecture
Background:
- Underwater vehicle energy consumption is dominated by water resistance.
- Reducing drag is crucial for enhancing vehicle speed and endurance.
- Biomimicry offers innovative solutions for engineering challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel drag reduction technique for underwater vehicles.
- To investigate the effectiveness of fish school-inspired collective streamlined models.
- To analyze the impact of model spacing and flow velocity on drag reduction.
Main Methods:
- Establishing collective models based on fish school structures.
- Arranging streamlined models on a plane to study planar resistance.
- Varying lateral spacing and flow field velocity to determine drag reduction rules.
- Conducting flow field analysis to understand drag reduction mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Streamlined collective models reduce total resistance by diminishing viscous drag on a flat surface.
- Drag reduction effect shows a non-monotonic trend with increasing lateral spacing.
- A maximum drag reduction rate of 8.63% was achieved.
- Drag reduction rules were established for different models and flow rates.
Conclusions:
- Biomimetic streamlined collective models offer a viable approach for underwater vehicle drag reduction.
- Understanding the interplay between model arrangement and flow dynamics is key to optimizing performance.
- This research opens avenues for advanced underwater vehicle design and efficiency improvements.
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