Numerical studies on the instantaneous fluid–structure interaction of an air-inflated flexible membrane in turbulent flow

• DOI: 10.1016/j.jfluidstructs.2018.08.005
• Publication Date: 2018-08-29T20:27:06Z
• Authors: G. De Nayer; A. Apostolatos; J.N. Wood; K.U. Bletzinger; R. Wüchner; M. Breuer
• Keywords: Vortex shedding; Large-Eddy Simulation; Immersed Boundary Method; Fluid–structure interaction; Experimental data

The present paper is the numerical counterpart of a recently published experimental investigation by Wood et al. (2018). Both studies aim at instantaneous fluid–structure interaction (FSI) phenomena observed for an air-inflated flexible membrane exposed to turbulent boundary layer, but looking coupled system based on different methodologies. objective supplement investigations additional insights, which were impossible achieve in experiments. Relying large-eddy simulation technique predictions flow, non-linear elements structure and partitioned algorithm FSI coupling, three cases with Reynolds numbers (Re=50,000, 75,000 100,000) are simulated. time-averaged first second-order moments flow presented as well deformations standard deviations. compared references data solely available 2D planes. In order better comprehend three-dimensionality problem, analysis extended 3D data. Despite minor discrepancies overall satisfying agreement concerning reached between symmetry plane simulations. Thus in-depth analysis, results used characterize transient either related or structure. Particular attention paid depict vortex shedding types occurring top, side wake hemispherical membrane. Since fluid plays significant role phenomena, same its eigenmodes also impacts deformations, frequencies Strouhal found allowing categorize observations accordingly.