Physical aspects of vortex-shock dynamics in delta wing configurations

Abstract

Delta wing configurations with double- and triple-leading edges introduced within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Applied Vehicle Technology -316 task group are examined to investigate the dynamics of vortices and shocks, with potential implications for the preliminary aircraft design. The numerical simulations are conducted for the configurations at Ma∞=0.85 and Re∞=12.53×106 using the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes k−ω shear stress transport (SST) model across a range of incidence angles. The detailed analysis focuses on the case with α=20° using the scale-adaptive simulation based on the k−ω SST model. This study considers shock-vortex interaction and breakdown with buffeting to study the transient flow physics over the wing. Additionally, insights into vorticity strength and destruction are gained through the enstrophy transport equation. The findings reveal that the inboard vortex (IBV) development is impeded by counter-rotating secondary vortices from IBV and the midboard vortex. A key distinction is observed for the first time between the double-delta and triple-delta wings, in that the double-delta wing experiences shock-induced vortex breakdown, with the transient nature of this breakdown leading to an adjustment in the shock position, causing a shock buffet. In contrast, the breakdown in the triple-delta wing is linked to a stationary shock induced by the kink in the planform. This study highlights the crucial role of the orientation of the shock relative to the vortex axis in characterizing the aerodynamic performance of the planforms.