The Influence of Airfoil Geometric Parameters on Lift Generation Mechanisms: An Analysis Based on Aerodynamic Principles

Abstract

Through geometric optimization, airfoil designs directly affect efficiency, stability, and energy performance in aerospace and wind systems. More specifically, airfoil geometry optimization improves aerodynamic efficiency and reduces energy losses in aircraft and wind turbines, thus supporting technological innovation and cleaner energy utilization. This paper examines the physical mechanisms of lift generation and evaluates the influences of key airfoil geometric parameters, including maximum thickness, maximum camber, their chordwise locations, and trailing-edge configurations, on lift performance. To explain these effects, the analysis examines lift mechanisms from classical inviscid circulation models, including the Kutta-Joukowski theorem and thin-airfoil theory, to viscous-flow frameworks describing boundary-layer transition, shear stress distribution, and vorticity dynamics. At low Reynolds number conditions (0.3×10⁵ to 0.8×10⁵), viscous effects become significant and produce laminar separation bubbles that reduce aerodynamic efficiency. The results show that airfoil geometric parameters regulate lift generation mainly by reshaping surface pressure distributions and modifying boundary-layer stability, providing a physics-based foundation for optimized lifting surface design.