RDS‐SUMO: from lofting to physics‐based grids

Abstract

Purpose

The goal for this paper is to bring the easy‐to‐use geometry drawing software RDS to a “solid” mesh, which could be analyzed and simulated in CEASIOM, to enhance both CEASIOM and RDS's capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The RDS‐SUMO interface is developed based on the feature that both RDS and SUMO define their geometric model using cross‐sectional information, i.e. their “universe” shapes are close to each other.

Findings

The translation is automated and allows the engineer to easily modify and augment the geometry in the process. Two test cases are shown, with their high quality Euler mesh and CFD computations. The A321‐look‐alike test case tests the mesh quality for transonic aerodynamics, such as high‐speed trim and drag divergence; the twin‐prop asymmetric aircraft is a “diffi+cult” non‐conventional configuration analyzed for yaw stability in one‐engine out mode.

Practical implications

This paper shows that the CFD solutions based on solid grids could be obtained once the design is proposed and the RDS wire‐frame model is available. The aerodynamic properties can then be predicted in early design stage, which is very efficient for preliminary aircraft design.

Originality/value

This fast meshing tool could obtain “working” grids of a new design within hours.

Citation

Zhang, M. and Rizzi, A. (2012), "RDS‐SUMO: from lofting to physics‐based grids", Aircraft Engineering and Aerospace Technology, Vol. 84 No. 3, pp. 140-150. https://doi.org/10.1108/00022661211221996