Control of flow structure on non-slender delta wing using bio inspired edge modifications

Date

2025-8-27

Author

Dikbaş, Diren

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Non-slender delta wings are commonly used in fighter jets, unmanned aerial vehicles, and micro air vehicles due to their low structural weight-to-takeoff-weight ratio and high maneuverability. However, compared to slender delta wings, they typically produce lower maximum lift and tend to stall at lower angles of attack. The implementation of flow control methods can help improve their aerodynamic performance. In the present study, the effects of the bio-inspired leading-edge modifications on the aerodynamic performance and flow structure of non-slender delta wing models, both in and out of ground effect, were investigated using force, surface pressure, and near-surface PIV measurements. Seven different sharp-edged delta wing models with a 45-degree sweep angle were used to study the effect of sinusoidal and saw-tooth leading-edge modifications. Sinusoidal leading-edge wing designs were inspired by the leading-edge tubercles of the humpback whales, and the saw-tooth wing designs were inspired by the leading-edge serrations of owl feathers. The results of the aerodynamic coefficients indicate that the bio-inspired wing modifications delay the stall angle, produce smoother stall characteristics, and enhance post-stall lift. Near-surface PIV measurements show that at high angles of attack, large-scale three-dimensional surface separation appears on the planform for the base wing, whereas the modified wings reduce or delay this separation. A distinct flow pattern is observed for the saw-tooth wing at low angles of attack, indicating the footprint of multiple leading-edge vortices. Ground effect measurements show increased maximum lift for all the wings as the ground clearance decreased, while the stall angle remained nearly constant.

Subject Keywords

Non-slender Delta Wing, Passive flow control, Experimental aerodynamics, Ground effect, Bio-inspired wing modifications

URI

https://hdl.handle.net/11511/115694

Collections

Graduate School of Natural and Applied Sciences, Thesis