Aero-Acoustics

Professors Mueller, Atassi, Corke, Morris, Thomas, Snider, Izaguirre

Challenges: HS Array Processing, Acoustic Modeling, Adaptive Control

This is a particular strength in the Center. It has had sustained funding for more than a decade, and is expected to remain an important area in the future. Part of the reason for the success in this area is the unique facilities that exist in the Center. Aero-acoustic problems which are presently being supported include modeling and control of acoustic sources from wake/propeller interactions, from wing high-lift devices, and from commercial jet engines. In some cases these also involve fluid/structure interactions, so that there can be a degree of overlap with that group. CFD holds great potential for modeling acoustic generation mechanisms. In real applications, the computer requirements are substantial. Thus there is a real need for high-speed and parallel computing enhancements.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has listed jet noise as the second most important problem to the environment. An FAA mission statement declared that "protecting the environment poses the greatest single challenge to continued growth and prosperity of the aviation system." NASA has designated it as one of its research "Pillars" and set aggressive, and presently unattainable goals for future aircraft.

 

Funding in this area presently comes to us from the Office of Naval Research, NASA Ames and NASA Langley Research Centers, and the Turbomachine Consortium.

View the presentation on aero-acoustics research in the 1st annual FlowPAC Industry Partner Meeting on November 11, 2005 here.