EFFECT OF BIO-INSPIRED NEUROPTERA PROPELLER DESIGN ON THE AERODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE FOR SMALL QUADCOPTER USING CFD SIMULATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11113/jurnalteknologi.v88.24792Keywords:
Aerodynamic; Bio-inspired; Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD); Mesh Number; UAV PropellerAbstract
A small quadcopter drone is a lightweight, highly maneuverable flying device that uses four rotors for stability and control, making it ideal for various applications. Bio-inspired design is an innovation approach that mimics natural structures, processes, or systems to develop more efficient, sustainable, and adaptive solutions in engineering and technology. In context with small quadcopter drones, mimicking natural structures such as insect wings or bird feathers may enhance aerodynamic efficiency. Neuroptera wings are typically elongated and oval-shaped, lace-like structures that enhance stability, and lift during flight, as seen in insects like lacewings. The Neuroptera design was evaluated against the conventional DJI Phantom Pro propeller at rotational speeds of 3000, 5000, and 7000 RPM, focusing on thrust generation and pressure distribution. Both propellers were designed in Solidworks software with constant overall dimensions while the CFD simulations were conducted in ANSYS (Fluent) software using the Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations with the k- SST turbulence model. Results revealed that the Neuroptera propeller produced consistently higher thrust, with increases of approximately 74% across all RPM levels, highlighting its superior aerodynamic efficiency. Pressure contour analysis showed a smoother and more uniform distribution in the Neuroptera design, reducing turbulence and energy losses, while the Phantom Pro exhibited localized pressure gradients. The Neuroptera's enhanced performance suggests significant potential for improved aerodynamic performance. This study demonstrates the advantages of bio-inspired design in drone propellers and provides a foundation for further optimization, including the incorporation of serrated features for even greater aerodynamic benefits.
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