An extension of pseudo-3D vortex particle methods for aeroelastic interactions of thin-walled structures

Abstract

The paper presents an extension of vortex particle methods (VPM) in the context of pseudo-three-dimensional (pseudo-3D) multi-slice coupled numerical model for complex aeroelastic interactions of thin-walled structures. The flow around immersed bodies is analysed using pseudo-3D VPM with boundary element discretisation. The existing coupled model performs the aeroelastic interactions of line-like flexible structures using rigid cross-sections; the deformation of the system is analysed using the natural vibration modes of beam elements. The novelty of the presented coupled model is the inclusion of 3D shell vibration modes for structural analysis within the existing framework. The structural equations are formulated at the mid-surface of the thin shell elements and solved in the modal coordinate system. The slice-wise pressures on surface panels are projected to the corresponding structural nodes. New positions and velocity of surface panels are calculated to satisfy the velocity boundary conditions for solving new surface vortex streets. The coupled method has been validated by identifying the critical flutter wind speed of a T-shaped cantilever system. Benchmarks aeroelastic flapping of different flexible plates are studied further. The vortex-induced vibration of a circular pipe and the ovalling oscillations in circular shells are simulated to show the applicability of the method. Finally, the aeroelastic response of a cantilever roof system is analysed under different incoming wind speeds.