Optimal Aerodynamic Shapes for Hypervelocity Projectiles
Abstract
The research objective for Phase I of this work was to demonstrate the feasibility of establishing optimal shapes for hypervelocity projectiles, considering simultaneously the effects of drag, internal volume distribution and impact effectiveness. Utilizing classical optimization analysis and hypersonic inviscid flow theory, minimum pressure drag bodies were obtained subject to various constraints. It was then assumed that the shapes so obtained corresponded to the solid body plus a viscous displacement. Utilizing state-of- the-art turbulent boundary layer theory in an iterative mode, the solid body shape was then determined along with the skin friction drag. Relative to any specified reference penetrator shape, the internal volume distribution effectiveness may then be characterized. Subsequently, the loss in kinetic energy of the projectile along its trajectory is computed and the initial stage of impact is computed from a Navier-Stokes numerical simulation in order to quantify the target damage. As a result of this procedure, various candidate hypervelocity projectile shapes may be competed against one another from an overall mission point of view.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 28, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA178367
Entities
People
- Gustave J. Hokenson