← Back to NASA Technology Projects
Completed TRL 1 (started at 1, targeting 2)
Higher-order Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) models are developed to overcome the shortcomings of second-moment RANS models in predicting separated flows. These differential transport models hold promise in predicting reversal of turbulent transport typical in adverse pressure gradient flows. Third- and fourth-order moment transport models are developed and used to simulate canonical boundary layer and two-dimensional separated flows.
Existing RANS turbulence models over-predict the extent of separation, making them unfit for off-design aerodynamic studies. Second-moment closures (SMC) have failed to improve flow separation predictions over simpler two-equation models. Failure may be in part due to inability of algebraic models for turbulent transport to predict transport reversal typical in decelerating flows. To overcome this shortcoming, we represent the turbulent transport term using a differential model. The differential transport model leads to closing the RANS system equations either at the fourth- or fifth-order moment level. Models are constructed based on a-priori studies on existing moment budget term models. The system of about 10-14 turbulence equations are solved iteratively.
Addresses one of the technical challenges outlined in the Transformative tools and technologies project of NASA, to reduce separation prediction error by 40% by 09/2017
Improvements in vehicle external aerodynamics CFD predictions
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 1) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.