Aerodynamic Assessment of Flying Wing UAV and Impact of Dimples on its Performance

International Journal of Mechanical Engineering

© 2024 by SSRG - IJME Journal

Volume 11 Issue 7

Year of Publication : 2024

Authors : Sanket V. Kalgutkar, P. Booma Devi

10.14445/23488360/IJME-V11I7P109

How to Cite?

Sanket V. Kalgutkar, P. Booma Devi, "Aerodynamic Assessment of Flying Wing UAV and Impact of Dimples on its Performance," SSRG International Journal of Mechanical Engineering, vol. 11,  no. 7, pp. 98-118, 2024. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488360/IJME-V11I7P109

Abstract:

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) stand out as of late because of their different applications in observation, ethereal planning, and information assortment. Aerodynamic productivity is pivotal in boosting UAV execution, especially for flying wing setups. One promising way to improve aerodynamic performance is using dimples on the UAV's wing surface, which alters the flow behavior and diminishes drag. This study plans to examine the effect of different dimple shapes on the aerodynamic characteristics of a flying wing UAV. This paper conducts a comprehensive numerical analysis using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations. The flying wing UAV model is exposed to various dimple arrangements, including round, square, and octagon shapes, put decisively along the wing surface. The CFD simulations utilize the SST k-w turbulence model to capture the flow features accurately. The aerodynamic assessment of each dimple shape is assessed by inspecting essential boundaries like lift coefficient, drag coefficient, and the coefficient of moment for UAV. Preliminary results indicate that dimples significantly affect the aerodynamic behavior of the flying wing UAV. Dimple shape prominently affects drag decrease, stream strength, and, by and large, lift-to-drag ratio. A similar examination gives experiences into the benefits and burdens related to various dimple shapes, aiding the plan streamlining process for flying wing UAVs. The optimized dimple shape recognized through this exploration might upgrade the UAV's endurance, range, and payload limit, making it a resource in applications requiring delayed or broadened flight activities.

Keywords:

Flying wing, UAV, CFD, Dimples, Aerodynamic.

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