Exploring the Impact of Biomimetic Flaps on the Aerodynamics of a Naca-2412 Airfoil

This study investigates the aerodynamic performance of a NACA 2412 airfoil with biomimetic flaps inspired by avian covert feathers. Three flap configurations—varied in size (100 mm, 200 mm, 300 mm) and chordwise position (0.2c, 0.5c, 0.8c)—were simulated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) in ANSYS Fluent with the SST k-ω turbulence model. Simulations compared lift (Cl) and drag (Cd) coefficients of the baseline airfoil and biomimetic flap airfoil for angles of attack (AoA) ranging from 0° to 14°. The results indicated that biomimetic flaps deflected at 6° raised lift by 15% at 10° AoA with moderate drag. The biomimetic design delayed stall onset by sustaining lift at higher AoAs and had less sudden stall behavior. Additionally, the flap placement helped with increased pressure distribution and flow attachment and reduced separation influences. Despite limitations such as 2D simulations and modeling of flaps in static conditions, the study indicates the potential of biomimetic flaps to achieve maximum lift-to-drag ratios in aerospace technologies. Subsequent studies must include 3D simulations, experimental testing, and dynamic flap actuation testing to further design bioinspired aerodynamic features.