This endeavor aims to meticulously examine the ramifications of active flow control—specifically, the strategic implementation of blowing and suction techniques—on both vehicular performance and the intricate realm of aero-acoustic characteristics in the realm of rotor-wing interaction. This ambitious initiative is poised to address a distinct void in the current body of literature, namely the influence of active flow control on the intricate interplay between rotor performance and aero-acoustic phenomena.
The primary emphasis centers on investigating toroidal propellers—an innovation originally put forth by MIT. While MIT's research underwent postponement, our endeavor delved into comprehensive propeller design and testing over two phases, with the third phase currently underway. The overarching objective is to diminish aero-acoustic effects while upholding performance levels that can be likened to existing standards. In cases where this goal proves elusive, we are actively exploring techniques of active flow control. The testing setup boasts the capability to accurately measure performance metrics encompassing hover capabilities and aero-acoustic characteristics.
A scaled Wing-In-Ground (WIG) model is being meticulously constructed for comprehensive testing within a subsonic wind tunnel, featuring the added advantage of an adaptable ground plane. Initially, the experimentation commences with a stationary ground plane configuration. As the research advances, deliberate endeavors will be dedicated to investigating the implementation of a dynamic ground plane endowed with undulating surfaces. The overarching objective revolves around mitigating two pivotal operational constraints that impact the WIG vehicle's performance. The experimental methodology encompasses a combination of force measurements and advanced flow visualization techniques, rendering this investigation highly comprehensive and insightful.
This endeavor seeks to investigate the feasibility of applying the principles of pneumatic actuators, to a 2D morphing wing configuration. The preliminary phase will center on the prototype design of the wing's underlying structure. Upon the successful completion of this design phase, the project will transition to a series of experimental investigations. These investigations will play a pivotal role in validating the practical application of the pneumatical actuator concept within the context of the dynamic morphing behavior of the 2D wing.
This project focuses on harvesting energy from a membrane wing as air flows over it. The long-term goal is to integrate both vibration energy harvesting and electromagnetic energy generation into a single product.