Computational fluid dynamic analysis of an unmanned amphibious aerial vehicle for drag reduction
International Journal of Intelligent Unmanned Systems
ISSN: 2049-6427
Article publication date: 27 April 2020
Issue publication date: 26 June 2020
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this article is to minimize the drag of an unmanned amphibious aerial vehicle (UAAV) and enhancing the endurance.
Design/methodology/approach
Various surface geometrical profiles such as rectangular, semicircular groove, razor blade and V-groove riblets are incorporated into the UAAV, and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis is performed for various angles of attack at diverse vehicle speed conditions to estimate the coefficient of drag considering k–e turbulence model. Comparative evaluation between riblet and blunt body shape methodology is performed. Wind tunnel experiments are conducted to validate the flow characteristics around the UAAV.
Findings
It is observed that V-groove riblet method produced minimal drag in comparison with other profiles. The pressure distributions around UAAV for various geometrical profiles suggested that V-groove profile has achieved minimal vortex region, flow separation and turbulent boundary layer near to the outer profile.
Originality/value
The CFD analysis of UAAV for various riblet configurations and validation with wind tunnel smoke test confirms that UAAV with V-groove riblet provides low drag.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the funding support from DST-GITA (Ref: 2015RK0201103) under Indo-Korea joint research collaboration. The technical assistance from Centre for Autonomous System Research, Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R and D Institute of Science and Technology are also greatly acknowledged.
Citation
Ganesan, S. and Esakki, B. (2020), "Computational fluid dynamic analysis of an unmanned amphibious aerial vehicle for drag reduction", International Journal of Intelligent Unmanned Systems, Vol. 8 No. 3, pp. 187-200. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJIUS-01-2019-0003
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited