CFD Analysis and Design Optimization of Dandelion-Inspired Flying Sensors for Remote Sensing in Inaccessible Environments

This study investigates the aerodynamic performance of different flying sensors inspired by dandelion seeds, using COMSOL Multiphysics CFD simulation. Dandelion seeds are well known for their ability to remain suspended in the air for extended periods due to their lightweight structure, higher porosity, high drag, and the formation of a separated vortex ring (SVR) above the seed. Mimicking this behavior, five 2D and one 3D geometry were developed and analyzed first through steady-state simulations to explore how different design geometries influence passive flight performance. The primary aim is to identify an optimized structure that can achieve slower descent when realized from an altitude by drones for remote sensing. Steady-state results showed that although the drag coefficient generally decreased with increase in Reynolds numbers, porosity did not exhibit a constant trend across all designs. In some cases, geometries with lower porosity outperformed more porous ones. This may be due to their structural differences. SVR was observed in all designs. However, the distance between these SVR and geometry’s surface was small. While steady-state results give a fair indication of the aerodynamic behavior and relative performances of the various geometries, there are limitations. To address this, transient drop tests, currently under verification, will give a better understanding of the performances of these designs from which the best will be selected.