A PARTICLE TRACKING VELOCIMETRY SYSTEM TO QUANTIFY TRANSPORT PROCESSES AND FLOW DYNAMICS IN UNSTEADY, SEPARATED FLOWS
Abstract
This DURIP proposal seeks the acquisition of a high-speed, three-dimensional particle tracking velocimetry (PTV) system to enhance future AFOSR-supported research investigating vorticity transport processes and dynamics in unsteady, separated flows on aerodynamic bodies. The PI has been previously supported by AFOSR, beginning in 2011. The requested instrumentation is needed for anticipated future research involving the use of a vorticity transport framework as the basis for development of novel and robust aerodynamic load estimation and control strategies on static and maneuvering rigid and flexible structures. Specifically, the PI’s recent research has demonstrated a robust relationship between phenomena that can be measured with few sensors on the surface of the body, and concurrent flow phenomena relevant to the production of aerodynamic loads. This provides pathways for the development of realistic and robust flight controllers and efficient flow control strategies to manipulate aerodynamic loads. The requested instrumentation is needed because the flow phenomena of interest are highly three-dimensional and transient, requiring volumetric imaging capabilities in which the evolution of the flow field can be resolved in time. The PI currently uses a standard-frame-rate (i.e. not time-resolved) stereo particle image velocimetry (PIV) system that provides the capability of measuring only independent instantaneous, or ensemble-averaged velocity fields in a single plane, requiring a tedious measurement campaign to acquire sufficient data to quantify the transport processes. Dynamic modes in the air flow, which are needed to expose physics important to flow field manipulation strategies, are largely unresolved using the existing instrumentation. The system is also approaching 10 years old, and is near the end of its usable life. Recent advances in PTV algorithms and imaging hardware implemented in the requested instrumentation provide distinct advantages in measurement resolution, accuracy, and computational efficiency in a cost-effective instrument for the interrogation of highly three-dimensional, unsteady flow fields. Future impacts on defense technology include improved aerodynamic design methodologies for balancing the requirements of stealth and aerodynamic performance, more efficient air vehicles, and improved agility.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Aug 12, 2021
- Source ID
- FA95502010384
Entities
People
- James Buchholz
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Iowa