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On the Application of an Actuator Line Model for Rotorcraft Outwash Predictions

AMS Seminar Series

Speaker: Nicholas Peters, Aeromechanics Office, NASA Ames Research Center

Presentation

Seminar Slide Deck (PDF-3.3MB)

Abstract

This study investigates the implementation of a new actuator line model within NASA’s OVERFLOW computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solver, focusing on predicting rotorcraft outwash. To validate the actuator line model for downwash/outwash predictions, the model was compared against existing experimental data across three validation cases: single rotor Out-of-Ground Effect (OGE), single rotor In-Ground Effect (IGE), and tandem rotor IGE. All three cases were based on the rotor geometry and configuration of the CH-47D. Actuator line predictions are compared to high-fidelity blade-resolved CFD simulations and comprehensive analyses based on CHARM predictions. Results demonstrate the feasibility of leveraging this new actuator line model for reasonably accurate outwash predictions.

Biography

Photo of Nicholas Peters
Nicholas Peters earned his Ph.D from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2022. For his Ph.D, Peters collaborated with the HPCMP CREATE-AV Helios development team at NASA Ames, focusing on high-fidelity surrogate modeling for both fixed-wing and rotorcraft store separation. After completing his degree, he began working in the Aeromechanics Office at NASA Ames. His work at NASA Ames primarily involves utilizing high-performance computing to enhance vehicle modeling in the early stages of the conceptual design process. Key areas of interest include flight dynamics, turbulence modeling, automated grid generation, high-fidelity CFD rotorcraft performance predictions, and rotorcraft outwash.