Drag reduction strategies for the turbulent flow around a D-shaped body are examined experimentally and theoretically. A reduced-order vortex model describes the interaction between the shear layer and wake dynamics and guides a path to an efficient feedback control design. The derived feedback controller desynchronizes shear-layer and wake dynamics, thus postponing vortex formation. This actuation is tested in a wind tunnel. The Reynolds number based on the height of the body ranges from 23000 to 70000. We achieve a 40% increase in base pressure associated with a 15% drag reduction employing zero-net-mass-flux actuation. Our controller outperforms other approaches based on open-loop forcing and extremum-seeking feedback strategies in terms of drag reduction, adaptivity, and the required actuation energy.

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A low-dimensional Galerkin model is proposed for the flow around a high-lift configuration, describing natural vortex shedding, the high-frequency actuated flow with increased lift and transients between both states. The form of the dynamical system has been derived from a generalized mean-field consideration. Steady state and transient URANS (unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes) simulation data are employed to derive the expansion modes and to calibrate the system parameters. The model identifies the mean field as the mediator between the high-frequency actuation and the low-frequency natural shedding instability.