Theoretical and computational aerodynamics (Q2929604)

This is a comprehensive textbook on classical aerodynamics. The new aspect is the description of computational relations, due to the fact that in most cases the research needs either expensive model experiments or approximate computing. With regard to aerodynamics of theoretical character, the book starts with the conservation principles in terms of the Reynolds transport theorem (RTT) [\textit{F. M. White}, Fluid Mechanics. International Student Edition. Tokyo etc.: McGraw-Hill Kogakusha (1979; Zbl 0471.76001)] to derive the equations of continuity, of motion and of energy, and introduces the observations of atmospheric relations, following the ideas of Th.\ von Kármán.NEWLINENEWLINE In Chapter 2, the book treats the basic equations of motion, introduces the stress and strain tensors, discusses the circulation and rotationality. Then follow the irrotational flows and the Kelvin theorem on irrotationality. As we arrive at the Bernoulli equation, we see the application to measure the air speed (Pitot tube). The viscous effects and boundary layers come then from the first efforts of Ludwig Prandtl.NEWLINENEWLINE Now we return to the RTT in analyzing the energy equation where the question of heat transfer enters, together with the second law of thermodynamics and the equation of state. Next, the sound propagation and the Mach number follow. With this, the introduction of normal shocks, the Rankin-Hugoniot relation, the Prandtl or Meyer relation, and the oblique shocks come to facilitate the discussion of supersonic flow. In Chapter~3, the theoretical description of potential flows comes (introduction of complex analysis, Cauchy-Riemann relations), as well as elementary sigularities in fluid flows, sources and sinks, Blasius' theorem, the Joukowski theorem and the lift generation mechanism. Efforts of calculation are introduced (method of images, conformal mapping). Then the lift created on the Joukowski airfoil and the thin airfoil theory are presented (to show the efforts and calculational difficulties). Chapter~4 is devoted to finite wing theory. The next chapter introduces the panel methods, mainly the ones of \textit{J. L. Hess} and \textit{A. M. O. Smith} [Prog. Aeronaut. Sci. 8, 1--138 (1967; Zbl 0204.25602)].NEWLINENEWLINE The following chapter is on lifting surface, slender wing and low aspect ratio wing theories. Next, the author discusses the boundary layer theory, based on \textit{Th.\ von Kármán's} paper [Z. Angew. Math. Mech. 1, 233--252 (1921; JFM 48.0968.01)] and on modern results. The computational aerodynamics starts with the next chapter (which contains 12 references to the author himself). The stability problem is treated in the ninth chapter (now with 15 references to the author's works). Then the drag reduction (analysis and design of airfoils) is the matter of the next chapter (it cites 5 references to the author's works). The following chapter treats the direct numerical simulation of 2D transonic flows around airfoils (nine references show the works of the author), indicates the governing equations and boundary conditions, and discusses the role of shock capturing. The twelfth chapter is about the low Reynolds number aerodynamics (here 8 references to the author's results) and it contains remarks on insect/bird flight. The last chapter (the 13th) discusses high lift devices and flow control (and, among others, quotes 5 papers of the author).NEWLINENEWLINE The book, due to its dedication to flight specialists, treats remarkable modern steps in flight theory and control. It offers as complete as possible a guide to engineers-specialists without the huge burden of hydrodynamics. We hope that the volume will be an excellent companion for aviation lovers (in the atmosphere of the Earth and in similar circumstances).