Boundary Layer Transition induced surface heating on hypersonic vehicles
Abstract
The danger of hypersonic weapons currently in development by U.S. adversaries poses a threat to our defense systems due to their maneuverability and the altitude at which they fly (Spier 29). Although there are currently no effective defenses against hypersonic weapons, part of developing that defense involves understanding the effects of transition in hypersonic boundary layers over control surfaces so that we can not only predict vehicle trajectories and aerodynamic heating of our hypersonic vehicles, but also that of our adversaries. A significant step towards achieving this goal is the ability to predict and control when the boundary layers on hypersonic vehicles transition and quantify the interaction of shocks with transitioning boundary layers. In this project, vehicle surface heating will be investigated by examining boundary layer transition and shock wave boundary layer interaction (SWBLI). Our results will be used to provide better correlations of experimental data with predictions of surface heat flux at high speeds. Surface heating on hypersonic vehicles can be significantly increased by shock interactions with transitioning boundary layers as well as control jet interactions. The compact size and higher aerodynamic heating associated with hypersonic vehicles make it more difficult to maintain their structure and internal components below their upper temperature limits. Thermal gradients across thin structures may also cause these vehicles to bend or warp. It is also possible for sharp airfoil leading edges to be abraded, eroded, and oxidized. As the hypersonic boundary layer transitions, the multiple instability modes and shocks present in the boundary layer also interact with each other to produce aerodynamic heating. Parts of the project research are also well-suited for an undergraduate research project. Undergraduate students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents will be recruited at the end of their junior year to participate in the project through a year-long undergraduate research elective course series. The results of their research projects will be presented at an Undergraduate Research Fair such as the one hosted by Howard University in the Spring Semester of each academic year. Incorporating undergraduates in this project will provide a unique opportunity for the students to gain access to potential careers in hypersonics research with the U.S. Air Force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310597
Entities
People
- Sonya T. Smith
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Howard University
- United States Air Force