Maximizing the efficiency of a flexible propulsor using experimental optimization

Daniel B Quinn, George V Lauder, Alexander Smits

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleResearchpeer-review

123 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Experimental gradient-based optimization is used to maximize the propulsive efficiency of a heaving and pitching flexible panel. Optimum and near-optimum conditions are studied via direct force measurements and particle image velocimetry (PIV). The net thrust and power scale predictably with the frequency and amplitude of the leading edge, but the efficiency shows a complex multimodal response. Optimum pitch and heave motions are found to produce nearly twice the efficiencies of optimum heave-only motions. Efficiency is globally optimized when (i) the Strouhal number is within an optimal range that varies weakly with amplitude and boundary conditions; (ii) the panel is actuated at a resonant frequency of the fluid-panel system; (iii) heave amplitude is tuned such that trailing-edge amplitude is maximized while the flow along the body remains attached; and (iv) the maximum pitch angle and phase lag are chosen so that the effective angle of attack is minimized. The multi-dimensionality and multi-modality of the efficiency response demonstrate that experimental optimization is well-suited for the design of flexible underwater propulsors.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)430 - 448
Number of pages19
JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics
Volume767
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2015

Keywords

  • Flow–structure interactions
  • Propulsion
  • Swimming/flying

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