Numerical Simulation and Aerodynamic Performance Investigation of Insect-inspired Propellers

Authors

1 Aerospace Department, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran

2 Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, Tehran University

3 Assistant Professor University of Tehran

10.22044/jsfm.2024.13786.3806

Abstract

One of the methods that can be used in improving the aerodynamic performance of the small unmanned aerial vehicle propellers is inspiration from the wing shape of different species of animals such as birds and insects. current research investigates the aerodynamic performance of insect-inspired propellers. propeller shape effects on the aerodynamic performance parameters including thrust, torque and propeller efficiency; have been studied. In this research, the wing shape of four species of insects including Hemiptera, Orthoptera and Neuroptera was inspired. Numerical simulations were conducted using the moving reference frame method (Multiple Reference Frame) and k-ω SST turbulence model at the hover condition. simulations were done in the rotational speed range of 4000 to 8000 rpm for a propeller with a diameter of 0.24 meters. Eppler E63 airfoil is selected for all propellers. validation of numerical simulation results has been done using experimental data of the DJI Phantom 3 propeller and an acceptable agreement with the experimental data was obtained. results shows that the insect-inspired propellers have higher thrust, and at a constant force, inspired propellers have a lower rotational speed. Considering the propeller efficiency, this propeller has the best performance with 6.74% improvement compared to the DJI Phantom 3.

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Journal of Solid and Fluid Mechanics

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 29 April 2024

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