Numerical and experimental studies on BLI propulsor architectures

Abstract. An increasing awareness about the impact of civil air transportation emissions is currently driving a low-carbon technology transition, towards more sustainable propulsion strategies. Boundary layer ingesting systems are one of the most promising solutions, as a closer integration between fuselage and propulsors is considered a key in the achievement of more sustainable architectures. Such architecture is characterized by a high level of integration between the airframe and propulsors, making the design process become a major challenge. The present work deals with a complete CFD based design and optimization of a propulsive fuselage concept, both in terms of airframe shape and fan design.