Investigating the Impact of Tubercle Modifications on the Performance of the NACA 643-221 Airfoil

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering Program, Faculty of Engineering, New Mansoura University, New Mansoura, Egypt.

2 Faculty of Engineering, New Mansoura University, New Mansoura, Egypt.

3 Faculty of Engineering, New Mansoura University, New Mansoura, Egypt., Production & Mechanical Design Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.

4 Faculty of Engineering, New Mansoura University, New Mansoura, Egypt., Architectural Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt.

10.1088/1742-6596/3070/1/012011

Abstract

The distinctive tubercles on the leading edge of humpback whale flippers have potential applications in the design of aviation wings. These knobby structures are hypothesized to enhance aerodynamic performance, particularly in low-speed, high-lift conditions, by reducing drag and increasing lift. This study investigates the feasibility of incorporating whale-inspired tubercles into aircraft wing designs to improve flight performance. Through a combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel experiments, the aerodynamic properties of tubercle-equipped wings are compared to those of conventional smooth-wing designs. The findings demonstrate that tubercles contribute to more stable airflow, delay flow separation, and increase lift-to-drag (L/D) ratios. These improvements have significant implications for enhancing aircraft performance and fuel efficiency, particularly during critical phases such as takeoff and landing, potentially leading to the development of more efficient and environmentally sustainable aviation technologies.

Keywords

International Conference on Aerospace Sciences and Aviation Technology
Volume 21, Issue 21
21st International Conference on Aerospace Sciences & Aviation Technology, ASAT 21, 2025.
September 2025
Pages 1-11

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