Physics informed neural networks for triple deck

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to introduce physics-informed neural networks (PINN) applied to the two-dimensional steady-state laminar Navier–Stokes equations over a flat plate with roughness elements and specified local heating. The method bridges the gap between asymptotics theory and three-dimensional turbulent flow analyses, characterized by high costs in analysis setups and prohibitive computing times. The results indicate the possibility of using surface heating or wavy surface to control the incoming flow field. Design/methodology/approach The understanding of the flow control mechanism is normally caused by the unsteady interactions between the aircraft structure and the turbulent flows as well as some studies have shown, surface roughness can significantly influence the fluid dynamics by inducing perturbations in the velocity profile. Findings The description of the boundary-layer flow, based upon a triple-deck structure, shows how a wavy surface and a local surface heating generate an interaction between the inviscid region and the viscous region near the flat plate. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the presented approach is especially original in relation to the innovative concept of PINN as a solver of the asymptotic triple-deck method applied to the viscous–inviscid boundary layer interaction.