Numerical investigation of elliptical motion on propulsion performance of a flapping hydrofoil

Xiao Chen, Guang Pan, Qiaogao Huang, Fang Li

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

The elliptical motion is proposed on a flapping hydrofoil for propulsion instead of the traditional two degrees of freedom motion, plunging/pitching motion. A synchronously periodic horizontal motion (surge) together with vertical motion (heave) and rotating motion (pitch) constitute the elliptical motion. A NACA0012 hydrofoil is placed in two-dimensional turbulent flow with the Reynolds number fixed at 40000. Two parameters are presented to describe different elliptical motions, the ratio of heaving amplitude and surging amplitude, the difference between surge and heave. The elliptical motion can significantly improve the thrust and propulsive efficiency compared with traditional motion. Besides, there exists an optimal parameter to get a maximum time-averaged thrust coefficient and efficiency. This study can provide a guidance for the engineering design of the motion trajectory on biomimetic underwater vehicles.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publication2018 OCEANS - MTS/IEEE Kobe Techno-Oceans, OCEANS - Kobe 2018
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)9781538616543
DOIs
StatePublished - 4 Dec 2018
Event2018 OCEANS - MTS/IEEE Kobe Techno-Oceans, OCEANS - Kobe 2018 - Kobe, Japan
Duration: 28 May 201831 May 2018

Publication series

Name2018 OCEANS - MTS/IEEE Kobe Techno-Oceans, OCEANS - Kobe 2018

Conference

Conference2018 OCEANS - MTS/IEEE Kobe Techno-Oceans, OCEANS - Kobe 2018
Country/TerritoryJapan
CityKobe
Period28/05/1831/05/18

Keywords

  • Elliptical motion
  • Flapping hydrofoil
  • Propulsive performance

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Numerical investigation of elliptical motion on propulsion performance of a flapping hydrofoil'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this