Morphing Airfoil Design for Enhanced Aerodynamic Performance

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Folyóirat címe
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Kötet címe (évfolyam száma)
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Absztrakt

This thesis investigates the design and evaluation of a morphing airfoil mechanism to improve aerodynamic performance over a wide range of flight regimes. The proposed design uses a cable-driven mechanism attached to a cylindrical actuator and a double-pulley system to achieve the ability to actively change its shape. The application of this mechanism would be increased lift during takeoff, decreased drag during cruise, and improved stability during descent. This study is focused on a NACA0012 airfoil profile, the deflection angle and angle of attack are varied and its effect on aerodynamic forces, pressure distribution and flow characteristics are analysed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in Ansys Fluent. Static material choices for the mechanism consist of CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers) for flexibility / strength ratios for the airfoil outer skin, and Dyneema cables due to their high tensile and fatigue properties. Results show a prodigious effect of morphing mechanism on aerodynamic efficiency, which is possibly used in commercial aircrafts, UAVs and experimental aviation. Despite the auspicious results, including challenges around scale and 3D aerodynamic complexities still to be solved. This work advances the research field of adaptive airfoil technology with implications for future sustainable, efficient aerospace engineering.

Leírás
Kulcsszavak
Morphing Airfoil, Aerodynamic Performance, Cable-Actuated Mechanism
Forrás