Quadcopter CFD Simulation, Toroidal Propeller vs Simple Propeller, Acoustic Analysis, Industrial Application

Introduction

The acoustic performance of a toroidal propeller is an essential consideration in its design and implementation. The propeller’s unique shape can significantly impact the noise levels generated by the propulsion system. One of the main advantages of the toroidal propeller is its low noise and vibration levels, and the ring-shaped structure can help to absorb and dissipate sound waves. This can improve the comfort of passengers and crew on board.

However, the toroidal propeller is not entirely silent. The design of the propeller can create additional noise due to the interaction between the blades and the ring, and the ring itself can create noise as it moves through the air; the acoustic performance of the propeller can also be affected by factors such as the speed of the drone and the presence of external noise sources.

To optimize the acoustic performance of a toroidal propeller, designers may use techniques such as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and experimental testing. By analyzing the propeller’s flow patterns and acoustic characteristics, designers can adjust the design to reduce noise levels and improve efficiency.

Overall, the acoustic performance of a toroidal propeller is an essential consideration in its design and use. While the propeller offers many advantages over traditional designs, it is essential to carefully consider its acoustic performance to minimize its impact on the environment and improve the comfort of those on board.

Project Description

In this project, we will simulate a drone in a hover position with a toroidal and normal propeller to absorb the sound level around the domain and generate sound by the propeller. We have a quadcopter with four rotors rotating at 1200 RPM.

Acoustic Investigation of Quadcopters Methodology

ANSYS Fluent software investigates steady airflow in a three-dimensional drone. The geometry used in this simulation is created with design modeler software, and the mesh grid for both cases is generated with ansys meshing software with tetrahedral elements. Both cases are simulated as transient using the mesh motion to model propeller movement.

Results

Acoustic performance is essential in quadrotors, as it can impact the system’s safety and efficiency. Excessive noise can be a safety hazard, as it can interfere with communication between the pilot and ground crew and disturb wildlife in the surrounding area.

In addition, noise can indicate inefficiencies in the system, such as unbalanced rotors or aerodynamic issues. By optimizing the acoustic performance of quadrotors, designers can improve their safety, efficiency, and overall performance. This can lead to more reliable and effective use of quadrotors in various applications, from aerial photography to search and rescue operations.

During this investigation, a standard propeller generated around 213 dB of sound at 1200 RPM. But for the toroidal propeller, this value reduces to 85 dB.

Turbulence can have a significant effect on the sound generation of a propeller. As the airflow around the propeller becomes more turbulent, it can cause pressure and velocity fluctuations, leading to increased noise levels.

This can be especially pronounced in the near-field region of the propeller, where the turbulent flow can interact with the blades and ring structure. Designers of propellers must take turbulence into account when optimizing their acoustic performance.