CFD ANALYSIS OF THE X-29 INLET AT HIGH-ANGLE OF ATTACK

This article presents the results of a computational fluid dynamics (C FD) analysis of the X-29 forebody inlet flowfield at high angles of at tack and low speed. The goal of this work was to define the inlet perf ormance and flow patterns, and identify any fluid dynamic mechanisms t hat could cause an unacceptable loss of performance or stability in th e very high angle-of-attack operating regime, alpha = 50-90 deg, which has not yet been evaluated. External flow calculations to define inle t/forebody characteristics are done using a panel method; two-dimensio nal internal duct calculations employ a Navier-Stokes code. External a nd internal flow calculations are compared with wind-tunnel data, desc ribing static and total pressure characteristics across a broad range of angle of attack. Computed inflow velocity patterns are also describ ed and discussed. Results of a calculation describing inlet flowfield improvements provided by a slotted duct, demonstrate the application o f CFD to efficiently screen innovative design modifications.