
Adrienne Boynes
Biography
Hi, I’m Adrienne Boynes.
This summer, I used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to study the mean and unsteady characteristics of shock/boundary layer interactions (SBLIs) in the inlet of a supersonic aircraft. These interactions occur when shock waves sudden changes in pressure and density collide with the thin boundary layer of air near a surface. Understanding SBLIs is critical to optimizing aircraft inlet design, as they can lead to flow separation, structural instability, and reduced propulsion efficiency.
Using CFD simulations, I analyzed both time-averaged (mean) and time-varying (unsteady) flow properties such as pressure, velocity, and density. Mean data revealed where shock waves form and how they shape the overall flow field. Time-varying analysis helped identify fluctuations in wall pressure and friction, revealing unsteady flow behaviors tied to shock movement and separation regions. MATLAB was used extensively to process and visualize results.
This research supports improved inlet designs for supersonic and hypersonic aircraft, helping reduce losses and enhance system stability.