RT Journal Article
T1 Efficient self-propelled locomotion by an elastically supported rigid foil actuated by a torque
A1 López-Tello, Pablo Esteban
A1 Fernández-Feria, Ramón
A1 Sanmiguel-Rojas, Enrique
K1 Locomoción
K1 Vehículos espaciales -- Sistemas de propulsión
K1 Sistemas de combustible
AB A new theoretical model is presented for an aquatic vehicle self-propelled by a rigid foil undergoing pitching oscillations generated by a torque of small amplitude applied at an arbitrary pivot axis at which the foil is elastically supported to allow for passive heaving motion. The model is based on 2D linear potential-flow theory coupled with the self-propelled dynamics of the semi-passive flapping foil elastically mounted on the vehicle hull through translational and torsional springs and dampers. It is governed by just three ordinary differential equations, whose numerical solutions are assessed with full viscous numerical simulations of the self-propelled foil. Analytical approximate solutions for the combined effect of all the relevant non-dimensional parameters on the swimming velocity and efficiency are also obtained by taking advantage of the small-amplitude of the applied torque. Thus, simple power laws for the velocity and efficiency dependencies on Lighthill number and torque intensity are obtained. It is found that the swimming velocity and transport efficiency can be greatly enhanced by selecting appropriately the non-dimensional constants of the translational and torsional springs, which are mapped for typical values of the remaining parameters in aquatic locomotion. These resonant values serve to select optimal frequencies of the forcing torque for given structural and geometric parameters. Thus, the present model and analysis provide a useful guide for the design of an efficient flapping-foil underwater vehicle.
PB Elsevier
YR 2022
FD 2022-11-19
LK https://hdl.handle.net/10630/26364
UL https://hdl.handle.net/10630/26364
LA eng
NO Lopez-Tello, P. E., Fernandez-Feria, R., & Sanmiguel-Rojas, E. (2023). Efficient self-propelled locomotion by an elastically supported rigid foil actuated by a torque. Applied Mathematical Modelling, 116, 236-253.
NO This research has been supported by the Junta de Andalucía, Spain, through the project grants UMA18-FEDER-JA-047 and P18-FR-1532. The computations were performed in the Picasso Supercomputer at the University of Málaga, a node of the Spanish Supercomputing Network. // Funding for open access charge: Universidad de Málaga / CBUA
DS RIUMA. Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Málaga
RD 19 ene 2026