Development of a VSAERO (Vortex Separation Aerodynamics) Model of the F/A-18.

摘要

VSAERO (an acronym for Vortex Separation AEROdynamics) has been used to produce an aerodynamic model of the aircraft. When fully developed, results from the model will be compared with results obtained from experiments planned to be carried out in the ARL wind tunnel. The velocity field and wake geometry in the vicinity of the aircraft, and the pressure distribution on the aircraft have been calculated for various flight conditions. Calculated lift coefficients for the whole aircraft were compared with wind tunnel result obtained from McDonnell Aircraft company. The model was also used to study the effect of engine intake velocity on the aerodynamics of the aircraft. The major problem encountered during the development of the model was a numerical instability caused by the complicated vortex/vortex and vortex/body interactions in the vicinity of the tail of the aircraft. During this time, a new version of VSAERO was installed at ARL which promised greater stability in this area. It also allowed for a denser grid in the wake structure. Comparisons were made between the old and new versions to determine the extent of the improvements. Keywords: Computer programs; Australia. (SDW)