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1 – 10 of 321Mehdi Dadkhah, Mehran Masdari, Mohammad Ali Vaziri and Mojtaba Tahani
In this paper, experimental and numerical results of a lambda wing have been compared. The purpose of this paper is to study the behaviour of lambda wings using a CFD tool and to…
Abstract
Purpose
In this paper, experimental and numerical results of a lambda wing have been compared. The purpose of this paper is to study the behaviour of lambda wings using a CFD tool and to consider different numerical models to obtain the most accurate results. As far as the consideration of numerical methods is concerned, the main focus is on the evaluation of computational methods for an accurate prediction of contingent leading edge vortices’ path and the flow separation occurring because of the burst of these vortices on the wing.
Design/methodology/approach
Experimental tests are performed in a closed-circuit wind tunnel at the Reynolds number of 6 × 105 and angles of attack (AOA) ranging from 0 to 10 degrees. Investigated turbulence models in this study are Reynolds Averaged Navior–Stokes (RANS) models in a steady state. To compare the accuracy of the turbulence models with respect to experimental results, sensitivity study of these models has been plotted in bar charts.
Findings
The results illustrate that the leading edge vortex on this lambda wing is unstable and disappears soon. The effect of this disappearance is obvious by an increase in local drag coefficient in the junction of inner and outer wings. Streamlines on the upper surface of the wing show that at AOA higher than 8 degrees, the absence of an intense leading edge vortex leads to a local flow separation on the outer wing and a reverse in the flow.
Research limitations/implications
Results obtained from the behaviour study of transition (TSS) turbulence model are more compatible with experimental findings. This model predicts the drag coefficient of the wing with the highest accuracy. Of all considered turbulence models, the Spalart model was not able to accurately predict the non-linearity of drag and pitching moment coefficients. Except for the TSS turbulence model, all other models are unable to predict the aerodynamic coefficients corresponding to AOA higher than 10 degrees.
Practical implications
The presented results in this paper include lift, drag and pitching moment coefficients in various AOA and also the distribution of aerodynamic coefficients along the span.
Originality/value
The presented results include lift, drag and pitching moment coefficients in various AOA and also aerodynamic coefficients distribution along the span.
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Samir Ouchene, Arezki Smaili and Hachimi Fellouah
This paper aims to investigate the problem of estimating the angle of attack (AoA) and relative velocity for vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) blades from computational fluid…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the problem of estimating the angle of attack (AoA) and relative velocity for vertical axis wind turbine (VAWT) blades from computational fluid dynamics data.
Design/methodology/approach
Two methods are implemented as function objects within the OpenFOAM framework for estimating the blade’s AoA and relative velocity. For the numerical analysis of the flow around and through the VAWT, 2 D unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (URANS) simulations are carried out and validated against experimental data.
Findings
To gain a better understanding of the complex flow features encountered by VAWT blades, the determination of the AoA is crucial. Relying on the geometrically-derived AoA may lead to wrong conclusions about blade aerodynamics.
Practical implications
This study can lead to the development of more robust optimization techniques for enhancing the variable-pitch control mechanism of VAWT blades and improving low-order models based on the blade element momentum theory.
Originality/value
Assessment of the reliability of AoA and relative velocity estimation methods for VAWT’ blades at low-Reynolds numbers using URANS turbulence models in the context of dynamic stall and blade–vortex interactions.
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Ngoc Anh Vu, Jae‐Woo Lee, Sangho Kim and Daniel Neufeld
Rotor performance analysis and design are complex due to the wide variation in flow characteristics. Design tools that can rapidly and accurately compute aerofoil data are needed…
Abstract
Purpose
Rotor performance analysis and design are complex due to the wide variation in flow characteristics. Design tools that can rapidly and accurately compute aerofoil data are needed for rotorcraft design and analysis purposes. The purpose of this paper is to describe a process which has been developed that effectively automates the generation of two‐dimensional (2D) aerofoil characteristics tables.
Design/methodology/approach
The process associates a number of commercial software packages and in‐house codes that employ diverse methodologies, including the Navier‐Stokes equation‐solving method, the high‐order panel method and Euler equations solved with the fully coupled viscous‐inviscid interaction (VII) method. The paper describes the development of a general automated generation method that extends from aerofoil shape generation to aerofoil characteristic analysis. The generated data are stored in C81 aerofoil characteristics tables for use in comprehensive rotorcraft analysis codes and rotor blade design. In addition, the methodology could be easily applied for fixed‐wing analysis and design, especially for transonic aircraft.
Findings
The method is demonstrated to achieve aerofoil characteristics quickly and accurately in automated process. Calculations for the SC1095 aerofoil section are presented and compared with existing experimental C81 data and previous studies.
Practical implications
The development of C81 tables is of interest to industry as they seek to update their airfoil tables as new designs. Automated processes to achieve this are helpful and applicable.
Originality/value
The paper presents an effective automated process to generate aerofoil characteristics tables quickly, and accurately.
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Aslesha Bodavula, Rajesh Yadav and Ugur Guven
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of surface protrusions on the flow unsteadiness of NACA 0012 at a Reynolds number of 100,000.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of surface protrusions on the flow unsteadiness of NACA 0012 at a Reynolds number of 100,000.
Design/methodology/approach
Effect of protrusions is investigated through numerical simulation of two-dimensional Navier–Stokes equations using a finite volume solver. Turbulent stresses are resolved through the transition Shear stress transport (four-equation) turbulence model.
Findings
The small protrusion located at 0.05c and 0.1c significantly improve the lift coefficient by up to 36% in the post-stall regime. It also alleviates the leading edge stall. The larger protrusions increase the drag significantly along with significant degradation of lift characteristics in the pre-stall regime as well. The smaller protrusions also increase the frequency of the vortex shedding.
Originality/value
The effect of macroscopic protrusions or deposits in rarely investigated. The delay in stall shown by smaller protrusions can be beneficial to micro aerial vehicles. The smaller protrusions increase the frequency of the vortex shedding, and hence, can be used as a tool to enhance energy production for energy harvesters based on vortex-induced vibrations and oscillating wing philosophy.
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This paper aims to show the current situation and additional requirements for the aircraft automation systems based on the lessons learned from the two 737 MAX crashes.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to show the current situation and additional requirements for the aircraft automation systems based on the lessons learned from the two 737 MAX crashes.
Design/methodology/approach
In this study, the Swiss cheese model was used to find the real root causes of the 737 MAX accidents. Then, the results have been compared with the actions taken by the manufacturers and authorities. Based on the comparison, the necessary improvements to prevent such accidents are defined. Regarding the faulty sensor that forms the accidents, a synthetic sensor was developed using an aerodynamic model.
Findings
It has been proven that the safety-critical automation systems should not be designed by relying on a single set of sensor data. Automation levels should be defined in a standard way. Depending on the defined automation level, the system must be designed as either fail-safe or fail-operational system. When designing backup systems, it should be decided by looking at not only whether it has power but also the accuracy of the incoming signals.
Practical implications
Aviation certification requirements related to automation systems need to be revised and improved. With this context, it was revealed that the certification processes for automation systems should be re-evaluated and updated by aviation authorities, especially Federal Aviation Administration and European Union Aviation Safety Agency.
Originality/value
Task sharing between automation system and pilot based on the classification of automation levels and determining certification requirements accordingly has been brought to the agenda. A synthetic Angle of Attack sensor was developed by using an aerodynamic model for fault detection and diagnosis.
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Leonardo Murilo Nepomuceno, Roberto Gil Annes da Silva, Alejandro Sobron, Petter Krus and David Lundström
While computational methods are prevalent in aircraft conceptual design, recent advances in mechatronics and manufacturing are lowering the cost of practical experiments…
Abstract
Purpose
While computational methods are prevalent in aircraft conceptual design, recent advances in mechatronics and manufacturing are lowering the cost of practical experiments. Focussing on a relatively simple property, the lift curve, this study aims to increase understanding of how basic aerodynamic characteristics of a complex stealth configuration can be estimated experimentally using low-cost equipment, rapid prototyping methods and remotely piloted aircraft.
Design/methodology/approach
Lift curve estimates are obtained from a wind tunnel test of a three-dimensional-printed, 3.8%-scale model of a generic fighter and from flight testing a 14%-scale demonstrator using both a simple and a more advanced identification technique based on neural networks. These results are compared to a computational fluid dynamics study, a panel method and a straightforward, theoretical approach based on radical geometry simplifications.
Findings
Besides a good agreement in the linear region, discrepancies at high angles of attack reveal the shortcomings of each method. The remotely piloted model manages to provide consistent results beyond the physical limitations of the wind tunnel although it seems limited by instrumentation capabilities and unmodelled thrust effects.
Practical implications
Physical models can, even though low-cost experiments, expand the capabilities of other aerodynamic tools and contribute to reducing uncertainty when other estimations diverge.
Originality/value
This study highlights the limitations of commonly used aerodynamic methods and shows how low-cost prototyping and testing can complement or validate other estimations in the early study of a complex configuration.
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Jyoti Srivastava and Padma S. Vankar
The purpose of this paper is to carry out phytochemical investigations of different extracts of Eucalyptus globulus bark such as aqueous, methanolic and supercritical carbon…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to carry out phytochemical investigations of different extracts of Eucalyptus globulus bark such as aqueous, methanolic and supercritical carbon dioxide fluid extract (SCFE) with ethyl acetate as entrainer. Three fractions (Eu 8, 9 and 10) containing steroidal δ‐lactone were isolated from SCF extract and the structure of Eu‐10 was earlier determined on the basis of NMR, HPLC‐MS, X‐Ray crystallography.
Design/methodology/approach
Column chromatography led to the isolation of flavonoids, tannins, steroids, etc. in different solvent systems. Isolated steroidal lactone (Eu‐8,9&10) of Withanolide series were tested for the presence of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and the results were expressed as gGAE/100 g (TPC), and gQE/100 g (TFC), respectively. The antioxidant capacity was evaluated based on their ability to scavenge free radicals generated from ABTS, DPPH, FRAP and H2O2 by spectrophotometric method.
Findings
The result of the present study showed that different extracts of E. globulus bark and the isolated fractions, exhibited different antioxidant activity. This was due to the fact that they contained different amounts of flavonoid and phenolic compounds as per their ability to solubilize these compounds; the high scavenging property of E. globulus may be attributed to hydroxyl groups existing in the phenolic compounds. All the samples exhibited different extent of antioxidant activity (AOA) and showed higher potency when compared with BHT in scavenging action of DPPH free radical. Comparative data analysis showed SCF extract to be better than methanolic and aqueous extracts, both in terms of yield and AOA, while Eu‐10 was the best amongst purified fractions.
Practical implications
The present research has serious implications on identification of natural antioxidants from E. globulus. Natural antioxidants with better structure‐activity relationship are under investigation. Isolation of withanolide from Eucalyptus bark has opened newer horizon for its use.
Social implications
Collection of Eucalyptus bark from the forest (a forest waste) by women folk can be a source of revenue generation and thus has social implication as well. It is an important agro product.
Originality/value
The steroidal lactone (Eu‐10) showed highest radical scavenging effect even at IC50, thus the isolated lactone proved to be the best potential scavenger of free radicals amongst all crude extracts and the isolated fractions.
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The paper focuses on the evaluation of a light aircraft spin. The main purpose of this paper is to achieve reliable mathematical models of aircraft motion beyond stall conditions…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper focuses on the evaluation of a light aircraft spin. The main purpose of this paper is to achieve reliable mathematical models of aircraft motion beyond stall conditions to subsequently predict spin properties based on calculation only. Another vitally significant objective is to verify whether the aerodynamic characteristics determined numerically are coherent with the wind tunnel measurements performed on the dynamically scaled aircraft models.
Design/methodology/approach
The analysis was carried out for two certified conventional light aircraft. The first part of the investigation is devoted to the verification of the simplified methods used to identify the aircraft recoverability from spinning steady-state turns and estimate the primary post-stall flight parameters. Then, the spin simulations were executed. The computational results were thereafter compared with the in-flight data recordings.
Findings
The study confirms the coincidence between the calculated spinning behaviour and the observed aircraft response during the flight tests. The mathematical models of aircraft spatial motion have been found to be credible for predicting spin properties. The simplified methods are reliable to determine the basic spin performance of light aircraft at the preliminary design stage, whereas the spin simulations enable recognition and comprehensive examination of all spin modes.
Practical implications
The outcomes of conducted calculation and comparisons of computational spin properties with flight test recordings have indicated that the qualitative assessment of spinning motion is enabled at each stage of the designing process.
Originality/value
The paper involves the comparison of the computational results with the recordings of spin in-flight tests and the correlation between calculated and experimentally obtained aerodynamics of light aircraft.
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Vasishta Bhargava, Satya Prasad Maddula, Swamy Naidu Venkata Neigapula, Md. Akhtar Khan, Chinmaya Prasad Padhy and Dwivedi Yagya Dutta
This paper aims to model the aerodynamic flow characteristics of NACA0010 for various angle of attacks including stall for incompressible flows using panel methods. This paper…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to model the aerodynamic flow characteristics of NACA0010 for various angle of attacks including stall for incompressible flows using panel methods. This paper also aims to quantify the surface pressure distribution on streamlined bodies and validate the results with analytical Jukouwski method and inverse panel methods that can predict the aerodynamic flow behaviour using the geometric iteration approach.
Design/methodology/approach
The 2 D panel method was implemented in Qblade software v.06 which uses the fundamental panel method which rely on source strengths and influence coefficients to determine the velocity and pressure fields on the surface. The software implements the boundary layer or viscous effects to determine the influence on aerodynamic performance at various angles of attack. Jukouwski method is also evaluated for predicting aerodynamic characteristics and is based on the geometric iteration approach. Then complex aerodynamic flow potentials are determined based on the source strengths which are used to predict the pressure and velocity fields.
Findings
At low to moderate angles of attack, panel and Jukouwski methods predict similar results for surface pressure coefficients comparable to Hess and Smith inverse method. In comparison to panel method, results from the Jukouwski mapping method predicted the pressure coefficient conservatively for the same free stream conditions. With increase in Reynolds number, lift coefficient and aerodynamic performance improved significantly for un-tripped aerofoil when stall angle is approached when compared to tripped aerofoil.
Practical implications
This study demonstrated that panel methods have higher efficacy in terms of computational time or resources and thus can provide benefits to many real-world aircraft or aerospace design applications.
Originality/value
Even though panel and Jukouwski methods have been studied extensively in the past, this paper demonstrates the efficacy of both methods for modelling aerodynamic flows that range between moderate to high Reynolds number which are critical for many aircraft applications. Both methods have been validated with analytical and inverse design methods which are able to predict aerodynamic flow characteristics for simple bluff bodies, streamlined aerofoils as well as bio-inspired corrugated aerofoils.
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Massoud Tatar, Mojtaba Tahani and Mehran Masdari
In this paper, the applicability of shear stress transport k-ω model along with the intermittency concept has been investigated over pitching airfoils to capture the laminar…
Abstract
Purpose
In this paper, the applicability of shear stress transport k-ω model along with the intermittency concept has been investigated over pitching airfoils to capture the laminar separation bubble (LSB) position and the boundary layer transition movement. The effect of reduced frequency of oscillations on boundary layer response is also examined.
Design/methodology/approach
A two-dimensional computational fluid dynamic code was developed to compute the effects of unsteadiness on LSB formation, transition point movement, pressure distribution and lift force over an oscillating airfoil using transport equation of intermittency accompanied by the k-ω model.
Findings
The results indicate that increasing the angle of attack over the stationary airfoil causes the LSB size to shorten, leading to a rise in wall shear stress and pressure suction peak. In unsteady cases, both three- and four-equation models are capable of capturing the experimentally measured transition point well. The transition is delayed for an unsteady boundary layer in comparison with that for a static airfoil at the same angle of attack. Increasing the unsteadiness of flow, i.e. reduced frequency, moves the transition point toward the trailing edge of the airfoil. This increment also results in lower static pressure suction peak and hence lower lift produced by the airfoil. It was also found that the fully turbulent k-ω shear–stress transport (SST) model cannot capture the so-called figure-of-eight region in lift coefficient and the employment of intermittency transport equation is essential.
Practical implications
Boundary layer transition and unsteady flow characteristics owing to airfoil motion are both important for many engineering applications including micro air vehicles as well as helicopter blade, wind turbine and aircraft maneuvers. In this paper, the accuracy of transition modeling based on intermittency transport concept and the response of boundary layer to unsteadiness are investigated.
Originality/value
As a conclusion, the contribution of this paper is to assess the ability of intermittency transport models to predict LSB and transition point movements, static pressure distribution and aerodynamic lift variations and boundary layer flow pattern over dynamic pitching airfoils with regard to oscillation frequency effects for engineering problems.
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