Enhancing UAV Propulsion: Insights into Toroidal Propeller Dynamics through CFD Simulations

Resumo

Toroidal propellers have emerged as a transformative breakthrough in aeronautical propulsion, promising enhanced efficiency, maneuverability, and notably, noise reduction. Utilizing Fluent/ANSYS for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, this study endeavors to delve into the performance dynamics of toroidal propellers in aeronautical applications, with a specific focus on assessing thrust generation, efficiency, and acoustic pressure, especially pertinent in the context of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The simulations meticulously modeled the intricate airflow dynamics around toroidal propellers, using Fluent/ANSYS's steady, turbulent flow solver, incorporating parameters such as airspeed, propeller rotational speed, and toroidal rotor geometry. The comprehensive three-dimensional computational domains accurately represented the propeller geometry and airflow interactions, facilitating a nuanced analysis of performance metrics.

Through comparative analyses of toroidal propellers against a conventional design, aerodynamic advantages emerged, notably in noise reduction. The unique closed-loop structure of toroidal propellers minimizes drag effects from swirling air tunnels, significantly attenuating the propeller's acoustic signature. These findings represent a pivotal step forward in our understanding of toroidal propeller aerodynamics, underscoring their immense potential in UAV applications. Moreover, they serve as a compass for future design refinement and practical integration into aeronautical engineering practices. With the groundwork laid for experimental validation and real-world deployment, the prospect of using toroidal propellers in both commercial and military aviation appears increasingly tangible.