Computations of Dynamic Stall Control with Combustion-Powered Actuation

A computational investigation on the dynamic stall control capabilities of combustion-powered actuation (COMPACT) is presented. Major geometry parameters for the actuator slot are investigated at high-speed conditions relevant to rotor dynamic stall. Optimal chordwise location, slot angle, and slot thickness are determined through 2D computations. It was discovered that the gap between slots in the span significantly reduced COMPACT effectiveness compared to the promising results shown in the 2D computations. Unique designs were developed to overcome these problems. The final 3D slot design, called the "vanishing gap," produces the most 2D-like behavior. The vanishing gap concept was carried forward to high-speed experiments.