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Topology of Flow Separation on Three-Dimensional BodiesIn recent years there has been extensive research on three-dimensional flow separation. There are two different approaches: the phenomenological approach and a mathematical approach using topology. These two approaches are reviewed briefly and the shortcomings of some of the past works are discussed. A comprehensive approach applicable to incompressible and compressible steady-state flows as well as incompressible unsteady flow is then presented. The approach is similar to earlier topological approaches to separation but is more complete and in some cases adds more emphasis to certain points than in the past. To assist in the classification of various types of flow, nomenclature is introduced to describe the skin-friction portraits on the surface. This method of classification is then demonstrated on several categories of flow to illustrate particular points as well as the diversity of flow separation. The categories include attached, two-dimensional separation and three different types of simple, three-dimensional primary separation, secondary separation, and compound separation. Hypothetical experiments are utilized to illustrate the topological terminology and its role in characterizing these flows. These hypothetical experiments use colored oil injected onto the surface at singular points in the skin-friction portrait. Actual flow-visualization information, if available, is used to corroborate the hypothetical examples.
Document ID
19970016834
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Chapman, Gary T.
(California Univ. Berkeley, CA United States)
Yates, Leslie A.
(Eloret Corp. Palo Alto, CA United States)
Date Acquired
August 17, 2013
Publication Date
July 1, 1991
Publication Information
Publication: Applied Mechanics Reviews
Publisher: American Society of Mechanical Engineers
Volume: 44
Issue: 7
Subject Category
Aerodynamics
Report/Patent Number
NAS 1.26:203748
NASA-CR-203748
Accession Number
97N71540
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCC2-583
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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