Abstract
For this work, conditional averaging and Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) were used to analyze the salient three-dimensional structures in the wake of a DrivAer fastback model with smooth underbody. Conditional averaging revealed that the bi-stable structure of the wake consists of a ring-like structure with three vortex legs, which includes a vortex pair on the side associated with the bi-stability and one on the opposite side associated with the wheel vortex. POD revealed the entrainment of low-momentum fluid from the wheel wake into the vortex pair leads to an induced spanwise crossflow which drives a feedback loop for the bi-stability. The resultant bi-stable structure was dependent on the state of the wheels. With stationary wheels, the feedback mechanism is enhanced, leading to higher spanwise crossflow that breaks the ring-like vortex. A different structure was observed when the wheels rotate, wherein the ring-like structure is unbroken and pierced by the vortex pair. The feedback mechanism and resultant vortex structure are similar to those found in simplified square-back models. Given the similarity in bi-stability between realistic and simplified vehicles, the suppression of the bi-stability in realistic vehicles could initially be based on the same mechanism as that for simplified square-back models.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.