Aeroelastic Modelling
This project is concerned with understanding high Reynolds number air flows. We model the flow interaction with fixed and/or moving bluff-bodies. The aeroelastic studies include flow around single and multiple bluff bodies. We have a focus on numerical model development due to the scale effect problems experienced in wind tunnels but we are also undertaking experimental investigations. An earlier project explored the Finite Element Arbitrary Lagrangian Eulerian (FE-ALE) and the Discrete Vortex techniques. The current project is investigating the complex interactions by capturing micro flow structures through advanced numerical techniques.
Furthermore, we have a special interest in low speed bridge aerodynamics, especially because of the vortex-induced vibration problems observed on many long-span suspension bridges.
Keyphrases: CFD, bluff-body aerodynamics, elasticity, mesoscopic approach, long-span bridges.