Using eigenmodes to form an efficient Euler based unsteady aerodynamics analysis

Fluid eigenmodes are used to created an efficient unsteady aerodynamics analysis for a 2D isolated airfoil immersed in a compressible flow field. For the first time, the eigenmodes are used to transform the large set of coupled, primitive variable (density, velocity, etc) equations, obtained from a time marching finite difference approximation of the Euler equations, into a much smaller set of decoupled (modal) equations. These reduced order models are shown to accurately predict unsteady load histories for harmonically pitching and plunging motions, as well as for step changes in angle of attack.

Duke Scholars

Author Earl H. Dowell Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materia ...