Work

Computational and Experimental Static Stability Analysis of Rectangular Prisms

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Rectangular prism-shaped cargo containers are investigated for future aerial delivery and helicopter sling load operations. The aerodynamic stability characteristics of two representative container shapes, the Twenty-foot-equivalent (TEU) and Internal Slingable Unit (ISU®)-90, are analyzed using a combined computational simulation and wind tunnel experimentation campaign. Integrated forces and moments, as well as static stability, are examined for the two shapes at Mach of 0.15, and 0.2. Six models are used in total, three for each of the two container shapes, with axial, normal, and side orientations. The findings provide insights into the aerodynamic stability of rectangular prisms as cargo containers in various flight conditions, which have implications for aerial delivery and helicopter sling load operations. Specifically, the computational simulations and experimental surface flow measurements identify flow separation and reattachment processes which directly influence longitudinal, lateral and directional stability characteristics.

Source: Journal of Aerospace Engineering

DOI: 10.1061/jaeeez.aseng-5715

Authors: Keith Bergeron, Mehdi Ghoreyshi, Casey Fagley, Timothy Siefers

Institutions: Combat Capabilities Development Command Soldier Center, United States Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, United States Army, United States Air Force Academy

Language: English

Topic: Fluid dynamics and aerodynamics studies

Subfield: Computational Mechanics

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Air Force, U.S. Air Force Academy

Award: G8298045140