Nonlinear shock-induced flutter of a compliant panel using a fully coupled fluid-thermal-structure interaction model

What is it about?

This study explores the behavior of objects like wings, control surfaces, and engine inlets at high speeds, particularly in supersonic and hypersonic flight. Simulations initially focused on a rigid panel under various conditions, determining optimal parameters for fluid-structure interaction (FSI). Then, a flexible wall under different dynamic pressures and fixed temperature conditions is studied, observing a reconfiguration effect on the separation bubble and shock structure. Results showed that the panel exhibited a damped oscillation, impacting the separation bubble and shock structure. Panel temperature affected the separation bubble size, with lower temperatures leading to increased shear layer gradients and reduced bubble size. Surprisingly, the interaction between the flexible panel and thermal conditions had a greater impact than each factor alone, potentially making the system more susceptible to fatigue-induced damage. This suggests the need for a specialized thermal protection system. Future studies aim to explore influential parameters in three dimensions and investigate the three-dimensional behavior of the interaction zone.

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Photo by Hermeus on Unsplash

Photo by Hermeus on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The research contributes to understanding fluid-structure-thermal interactions in high-speed flow and emphasizes the importance of considering various parameters in designing high-speed air vehicles.

Perspectives