Global dynamics and aerodynamic flow vectoring of wakes

Abstract

A methodology for vectoring the near-wake flow behind a bluff body without any mechanical movement of the physical boundaries of the generating body is described. The sole control input is suction applied at the fixed base of the forebody. Once the suction volume flux exceeds a critical value needed to suppress the global dynamics associated with vortex shedding, local directional control of the near wake can be achieved. The distribution of suction velocities across the base can be varied to obtain proportional directional control. The role of symmetries in stimulating aerodynamic vectoring of a streaming flow is emphasized and illustrated.