Aero-engine intake aerodynamic design and analysis

Previous work at Cranfield University has developed methods for the design of intake aero-lines for podded engine configurations. These tools are being extended to three-dimensional configurations with the ultimate aim of developing a viable short intake for future ultra-high bypass ratio configurations. This related research encompasses the development of optimization methods as well as including the interaction between the fan and the intake using low-order fan models.The overall aim of the PhD research is to develop tools and design guidance in the design of short intakes in association with fan systems for future ultra-high bypass engine configurations.
Expanded definition of research project (optional)
Assessment of intake aero-line design sensitivity to new parameterization method. Development of a design guideline database for rapid determination of initial parameter settings for subsequent optimizations. Investigate the relationship between geometric parameters, aerodynamic characteristics and intake performance metrics.Determine if useful design guidelines can be established for intake diffuser performance and aerodynamic characteristics based on the proposed parameterizationinvestigate methods to reduce the computational requirements for the aero-line optimization such as through response surface methods, reduced geometric parameterization or multi-fidelity approaches.