Amirkabir Journal of Mechanical Engineering

Amirkabir Journal of Mechanical Engineering

Computational Investigation of the Effects of Sinusoidal Leading Edge on the Aerodynamic Performance of a Wing in Incompressible Flow

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Zahra Shariati 1
Mohammad Taeibi Rahni 2
Mahmoud Mani 3
1 Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Amir Kabir University of Technology and Aerospace Research Institute Ministry of High Ed. Tehran, Iran
2 Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
3 Faculty of Aerospace Engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
10.22060/mej.2026.25585.7954
Abstract
In this study, the aerodynamic performance of a wing with a sinusoidal leading edge at relatively low Reynolds numbers was numerically investigated. The main objective was to evaluate the influence of leading-edge Protuberances on flow behavior and aerodynamic characteristics. Simulations were performed using software based on the finite volume method and shear stress transport turbulence model. Six different configurations with varying amplitudes and wavelengths of the sinusoidal leading-edge wing were designed and analyzed. Among them, the configuration with the largest amplitude demonstrated superior aerodynamic performance, particularly near and beyond stall condition, and was therefore selected for detailed comparison with the base model. The results show that the sinusoidal leading edge delayed flow separation, improved the stability of vortical flow structures, and shifted stall to higher angles of attack. In addition, the maximum lift coefficient was increased by approximately 10%, compared to the base wing. The findings also indicate a slight reduction in drag coefficient and an improvement in lift-to-drag ratio within specific operating conditions. Analyses of pressure distribution and velocity contours confirmed the formation of organized spanwise flow structures and a more uniform turbulence distribution over the wing surface. Overall, the results suggest that sinusoidal leading-edge geometries can effectively improve aerodynamic performance and flow stability at relatively low Reynolds numbers.
Keywords
Sinusoidal Leading Edge
Flow Separation Control
NACA 0012 Airfoil
Incompressible Flow
Numerical Simulation
Subjects
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Amirkabir Journal of Mechanical Engineering
Volume 57, Issue 11
February 2026
Pages 1509-1534