About the project
If you are a student of aerodynamics, chances are that you have drawn a conventional airfoil with nice, laminar incoming flow at some point. Enough of those steady, uniform streamlines! We welcome you to join us in disturbing the incoming flow and unravel in its unsteadiness using some of the best experimental facilities in the UK. If you are excited by the idea of subjecting bio-inspired wings to different types of canonical disturbances, measuring their aerodynamic responses, and taming their behaviour, then the vibrant and world-renowned Experimental Fluids Group at the University of Southampton is the place for you!
The project draws inspiration from the natural fliers like insects which fly head on into atmospheric disturbances such as isolated gusts or turbulence and find ways to recover quickly. The main thing that sets them apart from conventional wings is the flapping motion. Using a robotic insect-like flapper, you will delve deeper into the interplay between fluids and structures, especially when the oncoming flow and the blade kinematics are both unsteady. You will explore methods to mitigate the adverse effects of disturbances on wing performance through active control strategies.
Motivated candidates with knowledge/interest in aerodynamics, control, experimentation, and data analysis are encouraged to apply. Any experience with imaging techniques would be beneficial.
Through this project, you will enhance your skills and knowledge in motion control, unsteady vortex dominated flows, building rigorous experimental set-ups, coding (image/ signal processing), scientific planning, writing, and presentation (international exposure) amongst others. You will have access to training in general manufacturing skills in our extensive workshops. You will have the opportunity to work with the tight-knit cohort of PhDs and postdocs of the Experimental Fluids Group at Southampton who will be a part of your network.
