Improving the flying stability performance via the biomimetic sinusoidal leading edge

Leveraging theoretical analysis and experimental field flights, this paper investigated the root cause of the long haunting instability problem that found in F2B aero model plane’s precision flight. Inspired by humpback whale’s unique flipper structure and tubercles on its leading edge, in this research, this special structure was modeled into a definitive sinusoidal leading edge for the model plane. It was simulated with CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) software, i.e. Fluent, to prove its effectiveness in increasing critical angle of attack and delay stall. This airfoil is commonly used in the control-line model plane. Two sets of sinusoidal leading edge were fabricated and installed on the plane for experiments. The actual effectiveness and differences between normal leading edge and sinusoidal leading edge were then tested and verified in the real flights.