Numerical Prediction of Dynamic Derivatives for Lifting Bodies with a Navier-Stokes Solver

Abstract

Standard technique for the prediction of dynamic derivatives is the use of wind tunnel simulations with expensive technical equipment and complex data processing. Numerical flow computations, on the other hand, can simulate arbitrary model motion and hence, all desired derivatives are directly accessible. The prediction of dynamic derivatives with the help of an efficient Navier-Stokes solver is investigated in the present work. The assessment is performed for a lifting body that represents the X-24A experimental vehicle. Comparisons with wind tunnel and flight test data indicate good agreement. We can demonstrate that the numerical approach requires resonably low computation resources.