03.2 - Experimental Aerodynamics
MIDAS: A MODULAR SOFTWARE FOR INTAKE FLOW DISTORTION ANALYSIS
T. Piovesan¹, A. Giannouloudis¹, J. Hueso Rebassa¹, M. Migliorini¹, P. Zachos¹, D. MacManus¹; ¹Cranfield University, United Kingdom
This work demonstrates that short, compact intakes for next-generation high-bypass turbofan engines are highly susceptible to unsteady flow distortion under crosswind conditions, as flow separation occurs more severely than in conventional designs due to the reduced internal diffusion capability of short intakes compared to conventional configurations. By combining time-resolved stereoscopic PIV with methods for reconstructing total pressure from velocity fields, the study captures and characterizes both swirl and total pressure distortion in a scaled short intake under crosswind conditions without relying on intrusive probes. This approach has strong potential to reduce the need for conventional intrusive instrumentation while providing higher spatial and temporal resolution. The results improve understanding of the aerodynamics of short intakes under off-design conditions and support the development of more robust and efficient fan–intake systems through better-informed design and certification practices.
DOI: 10.71945/icas2026_0705