Aero-elastic characteristics of a wing in different proximity to the free surface

Abstract

To analyze the aero-elastic characteristics of a wing in varying proximity to a free surface, a numerical model of an elastic 3D NACA4412 wing was established using a bi-directional fluid-structure interaction algorithm. The volume of fluid method and detached eddy simulation were employed. The analysis focused on the structural response and the flow variation of the wing at different water clearances. The findings revealed that the deflection amplitude are more pronounced with smaller ground clearance, although the vibration frequency remains unchanged. Additionally, it was observed that the wingtip vortex is suppressed by the secondary vortex and moves outward when in ground effect. A decrease in water proximity resulted in a reduction of lift-induced drag. Finally, the presence of the free surface was found to generate significant wave-making.