Fluid-structure interaction simulation for performance prediction and design optimization of parafoils

Abstract

Parachute design is challenging to achieve innovative progress if the dominant role of testing continues, as it will be an increasingly expensive and time-consuming work. The aim of this study is to establish a reliable and efficient design tool using existing advanced numerical modeling methods. This paper presents a numerical method based on two-way coupled fluid-structure interaction (FSI) strategies for predicting aerodynamic and flight performance for parafoil design optimization. The nonlinear finite element method was used for the canopy fabric model and flow field, and the fluid dynamics were solved by Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes with the Spalart-Allmaras turbulence model. The FSI simulations are performed to assess the aerodynamic performance and structural deformations of full-scale parafoil canopies. The equilibrium shape of the parafoil canopy under steady gliding states and the relevant flow field were analyzed to enhance confidence and understanding in the performance prediction of new parachutes. Three-dimensional FSI simulation results of parafoils show that the inflation caused flexible bulges of canopy cells, and the maximum lift coefficient increased more than 16% with a higher stall angle of attack than that of the rigid body model. A parafoil with a smaller leading edge inlet or a scaling down area can improve the aerodynamic performance, mainly manifested in a higher lift-to-drag ratio and better anti-stall performance. Finally, the prediction results of parafoil glide performance were verified by flight test data, and the prediction accuracy of the flexible model is more than 10% higher than that of the rigid model. This work makes the simulation tools a step closer to practical application.