An Evaluation of Boundary Layer Forces and Measurement Methods.

摘要

An analysis has been performed of the effects of asymmetric hypersonic boundary layer transition on conical reentry vehicles relative to the forces and moments acting on the vehicle. The relative importance of boundary layer thickening, increased surface mass transfer, and changes in skin friction have been addressed and the effects of each of these terms on the vehicle forces and moments have been estimated. This analysis indicates that boundary layer thickening is the most significant factor occuring during boundary layer transition and may be a source of transient vehicle instability during the boundary layer transition event.