Computational Fluid Dynamic Modeling of a Fluidic Actuator for Flow Control

The development of a computer model demonstrating the switching dynamics of the flow within the actuator body has been accomplished. The model has shown good correlation to experimental data taken in the lab using rapid prototyped test articles and switching control with miniature pneumatic operator valves. The computer model is being used to refine the design of the fluidic body in order to improve the speed of the switching characteristics and determine the optimum location and magnitude of the control force. The momentum-flux ratio between the control jet and the inlet flow has been identified as a controlling parameter in order to produce reliable switching for a bistable nozzle flow. The maximum switching frequency for the conditions and test article considered in this report for one cycle was determined both experimentally and computationally to be 250 Hz.