Journal of Applied Sciences and Applications in Engineering
Review Article Volume: 2 & Issue:1
Abstract
The aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, driving the search for innovative aerodynamic solutions. This study presents a numerical investigation of bio-inspired airfoils as alternatives to conventional designs for drag reduction and efficiency improvement in low-Reynolds-number applications relevant to UAVs and future commercial aircraft. Five airfoils were evaluated: three bio-inspired geometries (Albatross, Falcon, Owl) and two conventional baselines (Eppler 387 and NACA 4412). Simulations were performed using a steady-state Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) solver with the SST k–ω transition model at angles of attack of 3°, 6°, 9°, and 15°. Results show that the Albatross achieved the highest lift coefficients, making it optimal for high-payload and STOL missions, while the Owl exhibited the lowest drag, offering endurance advantages for surveillance and ISR applications. The Falcon generated limited lift but competitive drag reduction, indicating a niche role for high-speed operations. In contrast, Eppler 387 and NACA 4412 underperformed due to stronger adverse pressure gradients and early flow separation. Pressure and velocity contour analyses confirmed that bio-inspired geometries promoted smoother pressure recovery and delayed boundary-layer separation compared to conventional profiles. Overall, the study demonstrates that bio-inspired morphing-inspired airfoils provide measurable aerodynamic advantages over fixed conventional designs, supporting the broader objective of employing morphing winglets to enhance drag reduction and flight efficiency in next-generation aircraft.