Aerodynamic performance comparison between biomimetic and conventional wind turbine blades using CFD analysis

Abstract

Improving the aerodynamic efficiency of wind turbine blades is crucial for enhancing renewable energy generation, particularly in low-wind environments. This thesis investigates a biomimetic approach to blade design inspired by the unique tubercle structures found on the leading edges of humpback whale flippers. These natural protrusions are known to enhance lift, delay stall, and reduce drag in fluid environments. Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations in SolidWorks, this study compares the performance of traditional smooth-edged wind turbine blades with those incorporating sinusoidal tubercle geometries under a constant wind speed and different angles of attack. Key performance indicators such as lift-to-drag ratio are analysed. Results demonstrate that the biomimetic blades exhibit improved aerodynamic characteristics, suggesting greater energy capture efficiency in real-world scenarios. This work highlights the potential of nature-inspired design to inform more effective and sustainable wind energy technologies, especially in geographically variable climates like those in Finland.