Bulk flow modification with horseshoe and serpentine plasma actuators

Two different control devices are introduced to modify the boundary layer thickness by plasma induced velocity in the low speed region. These horseshoe and serpentine shaped actuators are surface compliant and have a significant three-dimensional influence on neighbouring flows. A numerical investigation of the quiescent and flow condition demonstrates active electrodynamic actuation of fluid in all three principal (streamwise, crosswise and surface normal) directions altering the boundary layer thickness. Based on the powering scheme of electrodes, these actuators not only induce flow attachment to the work surface but can also extract momentum from an upstream flow injecting it into the bulk fluid. Such designs could be useful for tripping the flow as well as for separation control as needed.