Linking supersonic boundary layer separation to structural deformation using the Karman-Pohlhausen momentum-integral equation

A first-order link between local separation of supersonic turbulent boundary layer flow and structural deformation is established. First, mathematical analysis of the Karman-Pohlhausen momentum integral equation is carried out with the assumption of spatially varying surface topology in order to identify fluid-centric representations of structural deformation. Next, a data-driven approach is used to identify the dominant fluid-centric parameters. This ultimately yields a simple linear correlation between local skin friction coefficient and surface curvature, which is the unifying parameter relating deformation and separation. This link represents a key step toward deep understanding of the nuanced interplay between turbulent boundary layers and structural deformation and significantly improves fundamental understanding of fluid-structure interaction problems with prominent turbulent boundary layer dynamics. Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.