Hypersonic Vehicle Analyses: The Needs and Challenges of Multidisciplinary Simulations

Deformation control via active thermal management is being explored in relation to the structure of the Scramjet Inlet. By controlling surface temperatures, we can reduce or manipulate deformations. Sensitivities to material, flight conditions, and surface temperatures are being observed. Deformations in the inlets can impact Scramjet engine performance, which is also being studied. Validation experiments are being considered, but are challenging due to the need for hypersonic flow and sufficient time for heating and softening of the structure. Multidisciplinary optimization is also being considered to take advantage of deformation processes.