Navier-stokes computations for body/cruciform gridfin configuration

A grid fin is an unconventional aerodynamic lifting and control device consisting of an outer frame with internal grid framework of small chord. Present study performs the Navier-Stokes computations for the steady subsonic and supersonic turbulent flow past (a) grid fin alone (b) fin/body combination shapes. Efficient Grid-generation procedures are proposed for fin alone and for fin/body combination configurations. Full Navier-Stokes Equations with pointwise version of Baldwin-Barth one equation turbulence model are solved by an algorithm in a fully coupled, implicit, and large block structure. The computed results are in good agreement with the experimental data and detailed shock-shock interaction structure near grid fins can be obtained and examined. © 2002 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. All rights reserved.