Towards Active Flow Control Strategies Through Deep Reinforcement Learning

This paper presents a deep reinforcement learning (DRL) framework for active flow control (AFC) to reduce drag in aerodynamic bodies. Tested on a 3D cylinder at Re = 100, the DRL approach achieved a 9.32% drag reduction and a 78.4% decrease in lift oscillations by learning advanced actuation strategies. The methodology integrates a CFD solver with a DRL model using an in-memory database for efficient communication between the two instances, making it scalable to more complex flows and higher Reynolds numbers. 1 INTRODUCTION In light of the current climate crisis, the transportation industry faces significant challenges in reducing fossil fuel emissions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.