Hypersonic Laminar Flow Control Using Strategic Surface Patterning
Much simpler than a developing technology that employs plasma discharges, which requires a complex system for energy generation and controlSimpler and more efficient than approaches that utilize porous coating, the only viable current alternative:Stabilization of surface roughness is dependent only on geometric parameters, rather than material propertiesMuch simpler manufacturingRoughness elements can be affixed and removed from vehicle surfaces easily, allowing for quick modifications without changing the fundamental structure of the vehicle.
Produce standard surface roughness elements to affix to hypersonic vehicle surfaces:Commercial spacecraft (government and private)Space shuttlesReentry capsulesSpace tourismHypersonic aircraftExperimental aircraftMilitary vehiclesProduce standard surface roughness elements to affix to high supersonic vehicle surfaces:Multirole fighter planesReconnaissance aircraftFuture supersonic business jets
Researchers in UCLA’s Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering have developed a novel passive control strategy to maintain laminar flows over air transportation vehicles and space reentry vehicles at high supersonic and hypersonic speeds. The strategy focuses on delaying the laminar-turbulent flow transition. By applying an array of surface patterning in the appropriate region determined by detailed flow field calculations, one can delay the transition and maintain controlled laminar flow. The result is a substantial reduction in drag force, surface heating, and increased fuel efficiency of hypersonic vehicles. The technology may be applied to produce various surface roughness elements, which can be easily attached or removed from the vehicle surface.
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Background Related Materials Tech ID/UC Case 23662/2013-207-0 Related Cases 2013-207-0
USA
