The Need for Advanced Simulations for Advanced Air Vehicle Concepts

Abstract

A NASA program perspective is provided on the overall impact of advanced computational simulations on a portfolio of advanced air vehicles research. The current portfolio is built upon a rich history in both developing and employing advanced computational capabilities that enhance aerospace applications. These tools range from high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics simulations to comprehensive multidisciplinary design analysis and optimization codes. These analysis and design tools impact every area of vehicle-related research. Since this scope is so large, just a few representative examples from various aircraft and propulsion applications are provided. Brief assessments of potential future areas needing further development are also provided. In addition to using these tools to advance specific vehicle technologies, there are ongoing efforts to improve computational simulation capabilities in general by taking a long-term view of what key developments are needed in some key areas. Finally, a brief assessment is provided on how computational tools can be used more effectively in conjunction with ground and flight experimentation.