Validation of an automated chimera methodology for aircraft escape systems analysis

Abstract

The objective of this work was to validate a recently developed automated-chimera, domain-decomposition algorithm for the aerodynamic analysis of aircraft escape systems. This automated-chimera methodology was incorporated into the CFD-FASTRAN flow solver, which also includes a six-degree-of- freedom (6DOF) model. In particular, the methodology was demonstrated and validated by reproducing: 1) a half-scale wind tunnel test of an ACES-II ejection seat separating from an F-16 forebody, and 2) a full-scale sled test of an F/A-18 jettisonable canopy. Comparisons of CFD predictions and test data were made for six-component balance data, surface pressure data, and trajectory data.