Abstract

For a structure designed to interact with the surrounding fluid, structural deformation under loads induced by fluid flows is an important factor to consider, and one which is traditionally difficult to account for analytically. Coupling the finite element method for structural analysis with the finite volume method for the determination of fluid response allows for accurate simulation of the pressure and shearing loads applied by the fluid onto the fluid-structure interface, while also determining localized structural displacements that would cause changes to the geometry of the interface. This work seeks to simulate the behavior of cylinders with varying heights and stiffnesses under external flows with low Reynolds numbers. To address structural deformation accurately in the simulation, a morphing and remapping algorithm is applied to the fluid-structure interface. With additional consideration for anisotropy in the structure's elasticity, these analyses could potentially support the development of flexible components that deform in predetermined ways under anticipated fluid loads, allowing for simpler and more efficient solutions to control flow scenarios that traditionally require moving components and control surfaces.

Thesis Completion

2021

Semester

Summer

Thesis Chair/Advisor

Perotti, Luigi E.

Degree

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Degree Program

Mechanical Engineering

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Release Date

8-1-2021

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