Computational Modelling of Wing Downwash Profile with Reynolds-Averaged and Delayed Detached-Eddy Simulations

This paper describes the computational model to predict downwash for a conventional fixed wing configuration at flight scales (ReMAC = 2.26 × 107 ). The lack of resolution in the downwash wake region resulted in an over-dissipation of the turbulent behaviour of airflow in the wing’s wake. This artificially inflates the effectiveness of the horizontal stabilizer where an over-prediction of pitch stiffness was observed. To resolve this over-dissipation, both the Reynolds-Averaged and Delayed Detached-Eddy Simulation methodology were adopted to accurately capture the downwash profile leaving the wing. Comparisons between the estimation of wall shear stresses and viscous wall unit against a ‘first-cut’ simulation are made and discussed. Fundamental features of the downwash profile including the spatial and temporal scales used for the mesh are also presented and detailed in this paper