Design and Numerical Investigations on a Dual-Duct Variable Geometry RBCC Inlet

A widely applicable and variable geometry 2-D rocket based combined cycle (RBCC) inlet characterized by the dual-duct design is conceptually put forward. The inlet operates as dual-duct status in the low Mach range (0~4), and transits to single-flowpath status in the following high Mach range (4~7). It accomplishes operational status transition through an 8.0-degree ramp rotation and a 4.0-degree cowl rotation at Mach 4. Through numerical simulations on typical flight Mach numbers, the observed starting Mach number is 2.2, which provides a sufficient operational window for a smooth ejector-to-ramjet mode transition. The RBCC inlet achieves comprehensive high mass capture coefficients in the overall wide flight range, especially in the low speed regimes. Suitable Mach numbers satisfying various combustion requirements in different modes together with high total pressure recovery coefficients are also obtained since the physical throat areas, compression angles, and the corresponding contraction ratios can be adjusted by a large margin through very limited rotations. The variable geometry scheme is not only feasible for practical realizations, but is also simple to arrange the dynamic sealing issues in a lowtemperature environment in the RBCC engine.