Numerical Investigation of Separation-Induced Transition and LSB Dynamics in Low-Reynolds Number Flows

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Numerical Investigation of Separation-Induced Transition and LSB Dynamics in Low-Reynolds Number Flows The low Reynolds number flow regime has become a popular field of study in aerodynamics since the advent of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) and microaerial vehicles (MAV). Driving this interest is the particular laminar to turbulent flow transition process, commonly referred to as the laminar separation bubble (LSB). LSB formation and dynamics are responsible for most aerodynamic performance degradations in this flow regime, including loss of maximum and average lift, decreased stall angle, decreased pitching moments, etc. The LSB has also been shown to be strongly dependent on airfoil geometry and incidence conditions (angle of attack, Reynolds number, free stream turbulence intensity, etc.). The thorough investigation of this complex transition phenomenon is required in order to (1) better understand the physical fundations, (2) improve the predictability of flight in this regime, (3) derive performance correlations, and (4) optimize future designs. This project proposes an extensive investigation using the URANS approach for its cost-effectiveness, as well as higher fidelity CFD tools (LES and hybrid URANS/LES) for a more physically sound description. My expertise in the numerical investigation of different academic and engineering problems, using a variety of tools allows me to affirm that a significant contribution will result from this project.