On the Generalization Capability of a Data-Driven Turbulence Model by Field Inversion and Machine Learning

Abstract

This paper discusses the generalizability of a data-augmented turbulence model with a focus on the field inversion and machine learning approach. It is highlighted that the augmented model based on two-dimensional (2D) separated airfoil flows gives poor predictive capability for a different class of separated flows (NASA wall-mounted hump) compared to the baseline model due to extrapolation. We demonstrate a sensor-based approach to localize the data-driven model correction to tackle this generalizability issue. Furthermore, the applicability of the augmented model to a more complex aeronautical three-dimensional case, the NASA Common Research Model configuration, is studied. Observations on the pressure coefficient predictions and the model correction field suggest that the present 2D-based augmentation is to some extent applicable to a three-dimensional aircraft flow.