The FDM solution of unsteady inverse problem for two‐dimensional oscillating airfoils

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to develop an approach for the unsteady inverse problem of two‐dimensional oscillating airfoils based on the finite difference method (FDM) solution of the transient Euler equations.

Design/methodology/approach

The solution strategies are determined according to the mathematical model for the inverse‐problem of oscillating airfoils. Then the unsteady nonreflecting far field boundary condition and the permeable wall boundary condition are employed to treat the boundary conditions. The applications are carried out for the modification of an oscillating airfoil according to the design targets of the unsteady pressure distribution in an oscillating period.

Findings

The results show that the pressure distributions over the new airfoils coincide with the design objects indicating that the mathematical model and solution strategy developed in this paper is rational and reliable.

Research limitations/implications

This method is limited to frictionless flow.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new FDM solution of unsteady inverse problem for oscillating airfoils, which can be extended to treat the multipoint problem of airfoil design.

Citation

Yang, A., Yao, Z. and Liu, G. (2007), "The FDM solution of unsteady inverse problem for two‐dimensional oscillating airfoils", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 79 No. 2, pp. 184-191. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022660710734589