ACDL Faculty ACDL Faculty
Phone: (617) 253-0067
Office: MIT Room 37-475
Email: drela@mit.edu
Computational Aerodynamics Current research involves development
of computational algorithms for the prediction of 2D and 3D external
flows about aerodynamic bodies. Subsonic, transonic, and supersonic
flow regimes are being considered. Most of the work centers on
viscous/inviscid coupling schemes in conjunction with direct Newton
solution methods. Two- and three-dimensional integral boundary
layer formulations are also being developed for modeling viscous
regions. Specific geometries currently being considered include
high-lift multielement airfoils, wing/body configurations, and
axisymetric powered engine nacelles.
Optimization Techniques Research into optimization techniques
and strategies is also being pursued in paralleled with the computational
aerodynamics work. A key goal is development of methods for efficient
calculation of design-parameter sensitivities. Also being pursued
is the development of interactive tools to permit the designer
to make the most effective use of the computed design parameter-
sensitivity information to guide the evolution of a design.
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