Overview of the Mechanisms of Drag Reduction by Means of Flexible Surfaces

Abstract

The research of drag reduction technique have the advantages of saving energy and improving utilization rate, which behaves a tremendous value in economy and military, hence it is a hot issue for researchers all the time. Merging together with the method of bionic drag reduction, drag reduction mechanisms with flexible surface have realized its function by imitating the elastic characteristics of dolphin skin and using the interaction between flexible materials and boundary layer fluid. Development status of drag reduction technique with flexible surface was analysed, and its mechanisms were reviewed from two aspects of delayed transition and disturbance on boundary layer. In addition, drag reduction mechanisms with flexible surface were explored in terms of changing the structure in the boundary layer, moreover, its development tendency was prospected.