Laminar-Turbulent Transition of a Low Reynolds Number Rigid or Flexible Airfoil

Abstract

4-10 5 . In order to gain better understanding of the fluid physics and associated aerodynamics characteristics, we have coupled (i) a NavierStokes solver, (ii) the e N method transition model, and (iii) a Reynolds-averaged two-equation closure to study the low Reynolds number flow characterized with laminar separation and transition. A new intermittency distribution function suitable for low Reynolds number transitional flow is proposed and tested. To support the MAV applications, we investigate both rigid and flexible airfoils, which has a portion of the upper surface mounted with a flexible membrane, using SD7003 as the configuration. Good agreement is obtained between the prediction and experimental measurements regarding the transition location as well as overall flow structures. In the current transitional flow regime, though the Reynolds number affects the size of the laminar separation bubble, it does not place consistent impact on lift or drag. The gust exerts a major influence on the transition position, resulting in the lift and drag coefficients hysterisis. It is also observed that thrust instead of drag can be generated under certain gust condition. At α=4 o , for a flexible wing, self-excited vibration affects the separation and transition positions; however, the time-averaged lift and drag coefficients are close to those of the rigid airfoil.