Airfoil Design for Rotors in the Low Reynolds Number Regime

This study describes the design of two airfoil geometries intended for low Reynolds number rotary wing applications. The design methodologies used to produce two new airfoil designs are discussed; the first design method involves genetic optimization, while the other utilizes gradient-based optimization. The resulting airfoils differ significantly in shape, although both feature a high camber design which facilitates high maximum lift and hence high C_ldesign. The aerodynamic characteristics of the airfoils were identified through a series of wind tunnel experiments. The results indicated that a greater than 80% improvement in endurance factor under design conditions was achieved as compared to the benchmark airfoil. The study also compared the experimental results with flow simulation frameworks used in the design process, showing their viability despite limitations in predictive capabilities at certain operating conditions. This research provides useful insights into airfoil design and optimization for rotary wing applications.