Three-dimensional numerical analysis of active flow control for rigid wingsails using co-flow jet

Paper in proceeding, 2026

Flow separation over rigid wingsails at moderate to high angles of attack limits aerodynamic efficiency and increases load fluctuations, which constrains their performance in wind-assisted ship propulsion (WASP) systems. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of active flow control using a co-flow jet (CFJ) in enhancing the aerodynamic performance of rigid wingsails and to clarify the associated three-dimensional flow mechanisms. Three-dimensional unsteady CFD simulations are conducted for two sectional profiles, a symmetric NACA 0015 and a cambered crescent-shaped D2R8, under controlled and baseline conditions. The CFJ is implemented through jet injection and suction to modify boundary-layer development and separation behavior. The results show that CFJ significantly alters the suction-side separation pattern, delays stall onset, and improves pressure recovery. The controlled cases exhibit increased lift and thrust coefficients compared with the baseline configurations. The enhancement is attributed to boundary-layer energization and circulation redistribution induced by the jet–shear-layer interaction. The outcomes indicate that CFJ control can substantially modify separation behavior in rigid wingsails and improve propulsive performance under the examined conditions.