Tracking flow features using overset grids

Abstract

A method is proposed to use overset grid topology to track dynamic flow features. Features of interest such as moving shock waves and vortices are overset with relatively fine tracker grids. Solutions are computed on the various grids and information is exchanged at intergrid boundaries. A grid track-sensor variable such as pressure is used to track the position of the flow feature to be resolved. The tracker grid is moved to the position where the track-sensor variable has the desired value (generally a maximum or a minimum) and new interpolation coefficients are computed for information exchange across grid boundaries. Solutions are computed at the current location and time-step, and grid motion is brought into the solution via time metrics. The method is demonstrated by tracking a moving shock and vortices shed behind a circular cylinder. It is conjectured that the method would show significant benefits in resolving features such as wakes behind oscillating airfoils and trajectories of jets issuing from rotating nozzles as encountered during thrust-vectoring.