Computational Flow-Field Analysis of a Bio-Inspired Corrugated Wing at Low Reynolds Numbers

Authors

  • Nagabhyru Naga Phaneendra Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, Hyderabad, India
  • Aayuman Amit Kumar Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, Hyderabad, India
  • Umama Mahroz Department of Aeronautical Engineering, Institute of Aeronautical Engineering, Hyderabad, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65138/ijmdes.2026.v5i4.301

Abstract

This paper presents a computational investigation of the aerodynamic performance of a bio-inspired corrugated airfoil at low Reynolds numbers and its comparison with a conventional flat plate. The corrugated geometry, inspired by dragonfly wings, enhances flow control through vortex formation and boundary layer stabilization. Numerical simulations were carried out using ANSYS Fluent at angles of attack of 4° and 8°. The results indicate that the corrugated airfoil generates strong leading-edge vortices, which delay flow separation and improve lift characteristics. A significant improvement in lift coefficient and lift-to-drag ratio is observed compared to the flat plate. The study demonstrates that corrugated airfoils are highly effective for low-speed aerodynamic applications such as UAVs and MAVs.

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Published

17-04-2026

Issue

Section

Articles

How to Cite

[1]
N. N. Phaneendra, A. A. Kumar, and U. Mahroz, “Computational Flow-Field Analysis of a Bio-Inspired Corrugated Wing at Low Reynolds Numbers”, IJMDES, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 13–18, Apr. 2026, doi: 10.65138/ijmdes.2026.v5i4.301.