Unsteady aerodynamics analysis of flat plates in pitch oscillation

Abstract

The fluid propulsion mechanism of two oscillating flat plates is studied numerically using a discrete vortex method. Presently, the flat plates are assumed to be rigid. To analyze the closely coupled aerodynamic interference between the plates, a core addition scheme and a vortex core model are combined. The calculated wake pattern for a flat plate in heaving oscillation motion is compared using flow visualization. The effect of the wake shapes on the aerodynamic characteristics of the flat plate in pitching oscillation is investigated. The velocity contours at a certain distance behind the flat plates in pitching oscillations with several frequencies are plotted to investigate the possible thrust generation mechanism. The aerodynamic characteristics of the flat plates in pitching oscillation are also investigated.