Computational design and experimental testing of a flexible bi-stable airfoil for passive flow control

Anurag Bhattacharyya, Mark Bashqawi, Se Yeon Kim, Wanzheng Zheng, Theresa Saxton-Fox, Kai James

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

This study focuses on the design of a novel airfoil camber morphing mechanism using topology optimization that aims to harness the flow field around the airfoil for its actuation. The morphing mechanism is designed using snap-through instabilities for actuation and shape change. The aerodynamic forces on the outer mold line are predicted using a panel method for inviscid effects and Thwaites method for the boundary layer. The results of the computational morphing airfoil design and the predicted aerodynamics are presented. A 3D printed model of the airfoil is tested in a wind tunnel to analyse its camber morphing characteristics.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2021
PublisherAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA
ISBN (Print)9781624106101
DOIs
StatePublished - 2021
EventAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2021 - Virtual, Online
Duration: Aug 2 2021Aug 6 2021

Publication series

NameAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2021

Conference

ConferenceAIAA Aviation and Aeronautics Forum and Exposition, AIAA AVIATION Forum 2021
CityVirtual, Online
Period8/2/218/6/21

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Energy Engineering and Power Technology
  • Nuclear Energy and Engineering

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