Comparative Analysis of Aerodynamic and Acoustic Performance Between Distributed Electric Propulsion and Equivalent Single Propeller
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Distributed electric propulsion(DEP) has attracted attention as a sustainable alternative to conventional propulsion systems in pursuit of carbon-neutral aviation.Although DEP systems offer advantages such as improved aerodynamic control and reduced noise emissions, the complex flow interactions among multiple rotors and the wing surface should be investigated to ensure reliable performance prediction.This study presents a comparative numerical analysis of aerodynamic and acoustic performance between a single-propeller configuration and a DEP system under equivalent thrust and tip Mach number conditions.Flow simulations were conducted using the Lattice Boltzmann Method(LBM), and far-field acoustic predictions were obtained via the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings(FW-H) method under impermeable surface assumptions.The DEP configuration with three propellers generated a more spanwise-uniform suction distribution, yielding a 5-8% increase in lift coefficient compared to the single-propeller case.However, drag was slightly higher due to increased friction from multiple rotors.Moreover, the DEP system achieved an average noise reduction of 2-3 dB in Overall Sound Pressure Level(OASPL), with a maximum reduction of 4.1 dB observed in the downward direction.These results demonstrate that DEP systems can offer aerodynamic benefits while significantly reducing noise emissions, supporting their applicability to next generation low noise air vehicle designs.
Authors: H.S. Song, Y.H. Hwang, R.S. Myong, H. Lee
Institution: Gyeongsang National University
Language: English
Subfield: Global and Planetary Change
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7123357151