Context & Justification
The aerodynamics of profiles in low Reynolds number regimes (Re < 500,000), characteristic of small-scale UAVs operating in the Ecuadorian highlands, exhibits complex behaviors that simplified classical lifting-line theory models do not capture precisely. In particular, the formation of laminar separation bubbles and turbulent transition significantly affect lift and drag curves.
This project applies high-fidelity CFD simulation methodologies (RANS with k-ω SST turbulence model and γ-Reθ transition simulations) to characterize the aerodynamic behavior of candidate profiles under real mission conditions, including temperature, pressure, and density variations corresponding to altitudes between 2,000 and 4,500 m.a.s.l.
Main Research Goal
Specific Scopes
- Establish and validate the CFD simulation methodology (meshing, turbulence models, boundary conditions) for low Reynolds profiles, against public reference experimental data.
- Simulate a family of airfoils (NACA 4412, NACA 2412, E387, SD7037) at multiple operating conditions (angles of attack, velocities, altitudes) and construct their complete aerodynamic polars.
- Analyze flow separation and turbulent transition mechanisms in evaluated profiles, identifying correlations between profile geometry and behavior under Andean altitude conditions.
- Experimentally validate the most relevant CFD results through wind tunnel tests in EPN's fluid mechanics laboratory.
Research Products
Aerodynamic database of Cl-Cd polars for 4 profiles at Andean altitude conditions (2,000–4,500 m.a.s.l.), available in open format for the ATA group.
Documented CFD simulation methodology for low Reynolds in OpenFOAM/ANSYS Fluent, including automatic meshing and post-processing scripts.
Comparative validation report between numerical results and wind tunnel experimental data, with uncertainty analysis and usage recommendations.