+ Home + Center Home		Overview The Configuration Aerodynamics Branch conducts applied experimental and computational research focused on the development of advanced configuration concepts for all classes of fixed-wing aircraft at subsonic, transonic, and supersonic speeds. The emphasis of this research is to conceive and evaluate innovative aircraft planforms, control effectors, and propulsion system installations and assess the suitability for further development. This research is coupled with the development of an understanding of the flow physics and integrated aerodynamic characteristics associated with these classes of aircraft. Assessments of vehicle performance at cruise, off-design, and high-lift conditions are performed using experimental and computational methods. Research is conducted to optimize all aspects of configuration external shape and to develop and use configuration shaping, active and passive flow control methods, thrust vectoring for control, and advanced propulsion system installations for improving performance, stability and control, and maneuverability. Research is also aimed at understanding and optimizing the mutual interference effects that exist between aircraft components such as the wing, fuselage, propulsion system, and external stores to significantly increase performance. Research is also directed to the development and application of advanced experimental and computational tools for use in design and assessment of configuration and aerodynamic concepts. The focus of the computational research is to improve the accuracy, speed, and usability of these methods and to develop innovative approaches for their application to aerodynamic vehicle design and to the development of advanced concepts. The branch aggressively pursues multidisciplinary synergistic component and airframe system designs. The experimental research is conducted using state-of-the-art analysis and experimental techniques in appropriate ground-based facilities and is focused at developing an understanding of flow physics associated with, and processes for, extrapolating to flight conditions the experimental results obtained in conventional wind tunnels.
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