Project Title:

Efficient Computation of Viscous Internal Flows

01.01-1708A
Efficient Computation of Viscous Internal Flows
Propulsion Research Associates
1017 Oakwood Drive
Westmont
IL
60559
S. P.
Vanka
(312-654-1708)
LeRC

Abstract:

umerical computation of detailed, multi-dimensional, fluid-flow processes is important
for design and understanding the performance of propulsion devices. The solution
of the time-averaged, Navier-Stokes equations governing elliptic fluid flows (with
recirculations) presents a challenging task and requires substantial amounts of computational
time. The innovation in this project is a new numerical tool based on a number of
novel computational techniques that hitherto have been applied to solve very simple
model problems. The techniques proposed are:  multi-grid cycling, coupled solvers,
local mesh refinement, and vectorization. This approach holds promise of obtaining
efficient and accurate numerical solutions that can be free of finite-difference
errors and yet be affordable from the viewpoint of computational costs.  Under Phase
I of the project, the applicability and benefits of these techniques will be demonstrated.
The development and validation of the computer program would be performed Phase II.

Potential Commercial Application:

Potential Commercial Applications:  The savings possible for industries which would
use the proposed accurate, low-cost computer program for routine design calculations
of multidimensional flows translate into significant commercial potential.