Computational Fluid Dynamics Study on the Aerodynamics of a Blended Wing Body with Ground Effect in Subsonic Conditions

Mohan, S.; Kumar, P.

doi:10.47176/jafm.18.9.3328

Computational Fluid Dynamics Study on the Aerodynamics of a Blended Wing Body with Ground Effect in Subsonic Conditions

Document Type : Regular Article

Authors

Department of Space Engineering and Rocketry, Mesra, Ranchi, 813210, Jharkhand, India

10.47176/jafm.18.9.3328

Abstract

Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft designs have garnered significant interest due to their potential for improved aerodynamic efficiency, particularly during critical phases of flight such as landing and take-off. This study was conducted to analyse the aerodynamic performance of BWB aircraft during ground effect interactions, which are crucial for understanding performance in these phases. Numerical simulations have been performed at a free-stream velocity of 18m/s. A moving ground velocity of 18 m/s has been imparted to avoid the formation of the boundary layer on the ground. Simulations were conducted at a Reynolds number of 85,525 based on MAC, with angles of attack ranging from -10 to 30 degrees and ground heights normalized by wingspan (h/b) between 0.2 and 1. The effect of the angle of attack and ground heights has been investigated. The investigations aim to capture the complex flow behaviour due to the varying ground proximities. The results at extremely close proximity revealed noticeable disparities in the normalised velocity and pressure distributions in the leeward location, highlighting the significant impact of the ground effect on aerodynamic performance. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding and analysis of BWB aircraft behaviour during ground proximity operations, providing insights for optimising proximities and improving safety and efficiency during landing and take-off.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Computational Fluid Dynamics

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