Optimization of Energy Extraction Using Definite Geometry Prisms in Airflow

An approximate method for analysis and synthesis of moving rigid bodies (prisms) in the airflow without using numerical methods of space-time programming techniques is described by applying a fluid (air)–rigid solid body interaction concept for engineering applications through a straightforward mathematical model. The interaction of rigid body (prism) and air is encountered in different cases: moving body (prism) in the air; stationary bodies (prism) in the airflow; moving body (prism) in the airflow. The complicated task of rigid body (prism) and air interaction is simplified by using superposition principles, i.e., by taking into account the upstream and downstream rigid body (prism) and air interaction phenomenon, which has been found to be different under varying speeds. Numerical results obtained for various forms of prisms are shown for constant air–speed, where the steady state Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equation is solved by using k-ε realizable turbulence model. A detailed explanation to support the proposed approximate method is given by using numerical results obtained in ANSYS computations. All equations are formed based on laws of classical mechanics; the interaction of viscous forces is neglected in forming the mathematical model. Numerical results for different model prisms are compared and the theoretical results discussed in detail. The mathematical model in the present paper is applicable only to bodies that undergo a rectilinear translation motion. In the final part of the present paper, the proposed method is used in the synthesis and optimization task of energy extraction by considering the motion of a variable parameter prism in the airflow.