Numerical simulation of the effect of placoide scales on the aerodynamic characteristics of a profile

Аuthors

Yakimova A. V.

,

e-mail: nordwind056@gmail.com

Abstract

Observing how animals adapt to their environmental conditions can serve as a foundation for new discoveries and inventions. In this study, a computational analysis of two types of aerodynamic profiles with different arrangements of placoid scales — characteristic of sharks and rays — was conducted using the ANSYS CFX software package. The focus was on the positioning of scales in the region of the profile’s trailing edge. This arrangement mirrors scale‑like structures recently discovered on the fins of fossil marine reptiles. A comparison of the aerodynamic characteristics of the “modified” profiles (featuring scales) against conventional profiles was carried out across various freestream velocities and angles of attack. The results proved promising, revealing notable differences in performance. Based on the findings, the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating placoid‑scale structures into aerodynamic profiles were identified. Furthermore, a potential application area for such bio‑inspired structures on aircraft and other flying vehicles was outlined.

Keywords:

numerical simulation; aerodynamic characteristics of a profile; placoide scales; shark skin

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