Computational Methods in Viscous Aerodynamics

Most problems in viscous aerodynamics are concerned with the computation of the characteristics and effects of the boundary layer caused by viscosity manifested in the form of drag, turbulence, separation, vorticity and general unsteady flow. All these problems involve the solution of highly non-linear Navier-Stokes equations and progress is only possible by developing suitable computational methods. There are four main methods of numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equations, namely: Integral equations; Finite differences; Finite volume; and Finite elements. In addition there are so-called spectral methods which fall beyond the scope of this book as they are highly specialized. The choice of a particular method depends to a large extent on the flow region in question. Detailed illustrations of the four main methodologies are included in this volume. Containing contributions by some of the world's leading experts, this book is the definitive reference source for anyone interested in the the latest trends in Computational Methods.