Coupling of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Reentry Vehicle Surface Ablations, and In-Depth Conductions

The proposed Phase II program will lead to the development & demonstration of a highly optimized, fast-running 3D Reentry Vehicle Flowfield Model (RVFM3D) for performing trajectory analysis of Reentry Vehicle flowfields. The RVFM3D model will feature innovative methodology that will couple the RV flowfield with surface ablations and in-depth conduction for thermal protection systems (TPS). RVFM3D will have key features that will expedite RV flow solutions (GUI, NS/PNS flow solvers, self-contained automated grid generation and mesh adaptation, generalized thermo-chemistry, Expert Interface, etc.). Key developments during the Phase II would be the refinement of body ablative routines, ablative heatshield thermo-chemistry data banks, upgrades to turbulence modeling geared towards ablative effects, as well as modification of the GUI, the Expert Interface and the self-contained grid/adaptive methodology to 3D RV shock layer flows. RVFM3D will also predict RV wake flowfields, including seamless interfacing with systems-oriented codes for prediction of Radar Cross Section (RCS) signature, as well as Radar Frequency (RF) attenuation at on-board antennae. Phase II accomplishments will be demonstrated by simulating the descent trajectory of a representative 3D RV from an altitude of ~300 kft to ground impact.