Numerical Analysis of Reduced Frequency on Flapping Tandem Foils

Abstract

Numerous investigations on flapping wing motion have been conducted over the last two decades. The study of flapping wing motion was inspired by the possibility of using it to design and develop micro air vehicles. The application of flapping wing motion in power generation systems has attracted attention recently because of the growing need to replace fossil fuels with renewable energy sources. This research examines the effect of pitch oscillation frequency on the propulsion of a tandem flapping foils power generation system. Herein, the 2D models of tandem foils pitching with reduced frequencies f* of 0.04, 0.14, and 0.18 are used for parametric investigation. The results reveal that f* = 0.18 offers the optimal lift force among other reduced frequencies and 2.91% lower drag force compared to f* = 0.14.