A Review of Control Methods for Cavity Flows and Feasibility of Laser Energy Deposition as an Actuator

Abstract

Studies related to supersonic cavity flow are very important for aeronautics applications. Understanding the physics of cavity flows is crucial for both fluid mechanics and engineering applications. Supersonic cavity flow and control techniques for this type of flow have been studied for many decades. A review of literature on numerical and experimental cavity flow is provided and the flow mechanism inside the cavity is explained using example studies from literature. It is necessary to understand the complex nature of the flow before developing control methods for the cavity flow oscillations. The literature on the development of methods to control the flow oscillations in cavities which are harmful for aircraft is also reviewed. Feasibility of laser energy deposition as an actuator for flow control is investigated demonstrating examples from literature.