Aerospace Engineering Commons^™

External Aerodynamics Of Heavy Ground Vehicles: Computations And Wind Tunnel Testing, Ilhan Bayraktar

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Theses & Dissertations

Aerodynamic characteristics of a ground vehicle affect vehicle operation in many ways. Aerodynamic drag, lift and side forces have influence on fuel efficiency, vehicle top speed and acceleration performance. In addition, engine cooling, air conditioning, wind noise, visibility, stability and crosswind sensitivity are some other tasks for vehicle aerodynamics. All of these areas benefit from drag reduction and changing the lift force in favor of the operating conditions. This can be achieved by optimization of external body geometry and flow modification devices. Considering the latter, a thorough understanding of the airflow is a prerequisite.

The present study aims to simulate …

Modeling Aspects Of Magnetic Actuators And Magnetic Suspension Systems, V. Dale Bloodgood Jr.

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Theses & Dissertations

This dissertation is a study of new modeling techniques developed for magnetic suspension systems. The techniques discussed are modifications of magnetic circuit theory and fundamental eddy current models. The techniques are compared against experimental test results and finite element data. The information gained from the experimental testing is used to provide insight into magnetic bearing design.

A small-gap modeling technique called extended circuit theory is developed that incorporates information about the system gained from finite element data, or experimental data, to be included in the analytic model. The variations between the classical magnetic circuit model and the finite element model …

Supersonic Combustion And Mixing Characteristics Of Hydrocarbon Fuels In Screamjet Engines, Ahmed A. Taha

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering Theses & Dissertations

The combustion characteristics of gaseous propane in supersonic airflow using the rearward-facing step that is swept inward from both end sides is studied. The effect of sweeping the step on the flow field features of propane combustion is investigated.

The study of the supersonic combustion of ethylene is carried out using different combustor configurations, different main fuel equivalence ratios, and different pilot fuel equivalence ratios.

The swept step shows the ability to hold the propane flame in the supersonic air stream without extinction. It was found that the side sweeping of the combustor exhibits the high temperature and combustion products …