Three-Dimensional Separated Flow Over a Bump: Sensitivity to Geometric and Boundary Condition Variations

Abstract

Project Summary Three Dimensional Separated Flow over a Bump: Sensitivity to Geometric and Boundary Condition Variations John K. Eaton, P.I. Stanford University The flow of a turbulent boundary layer over a three-dimensional bump produces a local separation bubble and downstream longitudinal vortices which can have significant effects on overall vehicle performance. For a smooth bump, the separation geometry is not fixed, and it may be highly sensitive to small changes in the bump geometry or upstream flow conditions, making the flowfield unstable and very difficult to predict computationally. Magnetic resonance velocimetry will be applied to acquire full-field, three-component velocity data for a range of cases varying the bump’s geometry, the upstream boundary layer parameters, and the freestream turbulence. These measurements will reveal the range of flow behaviors that may be exhibited, and identify regions of the parameter space where the flow is highly sensitive to boundary condition variability. Cases exhibiting strong sensitivity will be examined in further detail in the Stanford High Reynolds Number Wind Tunnel using particle image velocimetry. A parallel computational fluid dynamics study will seek simple predictive indications of sensitivity.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Aug 12, 2016
Source ID
N000141512352

Entities

People

  • John K. Eaton

Organizations

  • Office of Naval Research
  • Stanford University
  • United States Navy

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster