Applied Computational Aerodynamics:An Unending Quest for Effectiveness

摘要

The author shares his unique perspective on the evolution of applied computational aerodynamics (ACA) since theearly 1950s. He has actively participated in the phenomenal growth of ACA from its infancy to adolescence to adulthoodby conducting and leading many research, development, and application campaigns at Lockheed Martin with the primaryfocus on increasing the effectiveness of ACA for aircraft design. Today one can choose from a wide variety of ACAmethods to support aircraft design needs. However, their effectiveness is less than satisfactory when configurationsexhibit complex flows such as those dominated by separation or vortices. Our quest continues even after 65 years ofACA progress because of the urgent need to increase effectiveness. The paper will (ⅰ) highlight the motivatingfactors and enablers of ACA evolution, and (ⅱ) illustrate ACA capabilities and limitations through representative examplesof applications to aircraft design including the F-22.