Simplified Transition Transport Model for Three-Dimensional Aerodynamic Configurations

Abstract

The DLR gamma model, a one-equation transition transport model, has been extended to predict transition due to crossflow instabilities. Two different local crossflow-instability approaches are incorporated which are based on the C1 criterion and a helicity-based criterion. Whereas the first approach is believed to be more accurate for infinite-wing-like configurations, the second approach is applicable to arbitrary geometries. The coupling of the local crossflow instability approaches to the gamma-transport equation was calibrated to optimize the intermittency production rate for a wide range Reynolds numbers. The predictive capabilities of both crossflow extensions are evaluated for a number of infinite-swept wings and three-dimensional wing configurations.