Hypersonic Vehicle Analyses: The Needs and Challenges of Multidisciplinary Simulations
Prof. Iain Boyd
Summary (AI generated)
Examples of our research focus on the interaction of individual molecules and atoms under conditions relevant to hypersonic flow. These calculations, known as trajectory calculations, help us understand processes like molecule dissociation and energy transfer. By performing billions of these calculations and then reducing the data, we can evaluate rates of processes like vibrational excitation and dissociation. This information is then used in our CFD code, Lamont, to analyze conditions with ground test data.
One specific calculation we have done is on the double cone experiment, showing good agreement between CFD predictions and heat transfer measurements. This progression from molecules to rates to CFD code builds confidence in our predictive capabilities. Once we have a reliable CFD code, we can use it for design and analysis, as well as answer hypothetical questions.
Our research serves as a numerical laboratory for various analyses and experiments. For example, we can use our CFD code to study the aerodynamics of hypersonic vehicles, including lift and drag. This approach allows us to gain insights into the properties of prototype hypersonic vehicles.