Stereo PIV study of Wake-Driven Dynamic instability in Blunt Entry Vehicles

We propose an experimental study using high-fidelity stereo Particle Image Velocimetry (SPIV) to characterize outer mold line (OML)-induced dynamic instability in entry vehicle aeroshells. We wish to make these quantitative measurements with the aim of improving our understanding of low-speed aerodynamic behavior and how self-driven flows produce dynamic instabilities. This will inform the design of more aerodynamically stable blunt aeroshells.

By the end of this 12-month project, we will have generated high-resolution volumetric flowfield data of wake flows behind models of blunt entry bodies at low speed conditions. We expect that this data will reveal the mechanisms of dynamic instability which will help validate CFD tools, help direct new force and moment testing and serve as useful information to assist aeroshell design.

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