Automated Design Optimization for Hypersonic Plasma-Aerodynamics
Abstract
In the first part we present our ongoing work on the optimization of an MHD energy by-pass concept. Here we consider the optimization of the power generator and accelerator components individually, and are in the process of a simultaneous optimization of an integrated generator-combustor-accelerator concept in a 2-D sense. We have concentrated our efforts on developing an optimization scheme that couples a flow solver (perfect gas Euler and equilibrium gas N-S) with a Poisson solver for the electric field including Hall effects. The architecture/algorithm of the optimization scheme is such that geometric and/or physical parameters can be optimized for a given set of free-stream conditions and objective function. The objective function was MHD power extracted in the case of a MHD generator, and thrust in the case of an accelerator. The second part of this report presents some ideas on how to extend this development and the associated real-gas MHD technology at HyPerComp Inc. into a potential Phase-II. We have developed a higher (4% order and beyond,) order accurate solver for MHD developed under an AFRL contract. We consider possibilities involving the usage of this solver in accurate boundary layer calculations and plasma effects in shear layers as a potential Phase-II extension. The current study of energy bypass concepts may itself be extended into an extensive exploration of finite rate processes in such systems coupled with an efficient optimization routine based on adjoint methods. A masters thesis supported in part by this contract on the optimization problem setup for hypersonic inlets to improve mass capture has been completed. Relevant portions of this thesis have been appended to this report in the third part.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA435356
Entities
People
- Donald R. Wilson
- Jennifer D. Goss
- Kamesh Subbarao
- Ramakanth Munipalli
- Shashi Aithal