Energy and momentum exchange between fractal trees and turbulent boundary layer

This study investigates the interaction between the turbulent boundary layer and fractal branched trees using the Large Eddy Simulation for both aligned and staggered arrangements. To simulate the flexible tree structures, a reduced-order Newton-Euler equation is applied. Our investigation focuses on understanding the deformation patterns of the tree canopy and the characteristics of turbulent flow by varying the flexibility and branching ratio of the trees. To analyze the effect of turbulent flow on canopy reconfiguration, we segment the flow into dominant regions. An energy budget and momentum exchange analyses are conducted to understand better the correlation between the tree motion and flow response and identify the Honami phenomenon's origin. Furthermore, spectral analysis of the turbulent kinetic energy is utilized to identify different modes of energy transportation above and within the canopy at various scales.