We conduct research on the coupled interaction of fluid, structural, thermal, and material dynamics applicable to low cost, high-performance weapon airframes. The research includes multidisciplinary approaches in theoretical, computational, and experimental fluid and structural dynamics, and multifunctional materials. We specifically seek to characterize the fundamental physics dictating the overall vehicle controllability, agility, lethality, and survivability. The products of this research will lay the foundation for development of methodologies and tools to exploit the physics of agile, maneuvering weapon airframes of all size scales and speed regimes applicable to tactical weapons in transition between the three phases of flight: (1) air-launch, (2) in-transit, and (3) terminal (e.g., low Reynolds number micro-scale airframes, air-launched unitary subsonic to supersonic guided bombs, air-launched supersonic to low hypersonic air-intercept, and long-range strike weapons). Research opportunities exist in the characterization; control; and exploitation of aero, structural, thermal, and material dynamics that enhance munitions operational capability.

 

Reference

Wilcox ZD, et al: Journal of Guidance, Control, and Dynamics 33(4): 1213, 2010

 

key words

Fluid-structure interaction; Computational fluid dynamics; Aeroelasticity; Aerothermoelasticity; Aeroservoelasticity; Thermal dynamics; Hypersonics; Multifunctional materials; Weapon airframes;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants