Waverider Configuration Design with Variable Shock Angle

Abstract

A novel waverider design methodology is proposed with a variable shock angle based on the osculating cones' theory. The expected shape with special requirements can be generated by arranging the distribution of shock angle using the new method. Contrast investigation is conducted on three waveriders, which are designed with constant, decreasing and increasing shock angle distribution starting from symmetry plane at the average shock angle of 12°. The feasibility of the proposed approach is validated by the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. The results show that the distribution of shock angle has a significant influence on the lift-to-drag ratio and volumetric efficiency. Waverider with decreasing shock angle owns the greater volume and volumetric efficiency but with weak aerodynamic performance. The waverider with increasing shock angle has a higher lift-to-drag ratio and enhanced the static stability but with lower volumetric efficiency. The performance of waveriders with variable shock angle under off-design and blunted conditions is also investigated, which reveals a great overall aerodynamic performance and good robustness.