

We adapt the linear theory of Theodorsen and unsteady thin-aerofoil theory to accurately predict the lift on the aerofoil even when the flow is massively separated and the kinematics is non-sinusoidal. Here we investigate large-amplitude, asymmetric pitching motions of a NACA 0018 aerofoil at a Reynolds number of \(3.2 \times 10^4\) using time-resolved force and velocity field measurements.

Closed-form analytical formulations are only available for small flow fluctuations, which limits their applicability to gentle manoeuvres.

The ability to accurately predict the forces on an aerofoil in real-time when large flow variations occur is important for a wide range of applications such as, for example, for improving the manoeuvrability and control of small aerial and underwater vehicles.
