Numerical Simulation of Tuna Fish Locomotion Using Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes Equations and Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian Methods: A Parametric Study on Thrust Generation

A numerical simulation of a swimming tuna fish is performed using the Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations with the [Formula: see text] turbulence model. The Arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian (ALE) method is employed with a deformable, body-fitted grid to accurately capture the undulatory motion of the fish while maintaining mesh quality. A parametric study examines the influence of motion parameters, including undulation coefficients ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]), wavelength, and frequency, on thrust generation. The results indicate that higher [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] values lead to a linear increase in thrust, while specific wavelengths and increased frequencies significantly enhance thrust production. This model provides valuable insights into bio-inspired propulsion mechanisms.