Sensitivity Analysis of Counterflow Thrust Vector Control with a Three-Dimensional Rectangular Nozzle

Currently, the fluidic thrust vectoring technique is a promising method offering an alternative to the classical method of thrust deviation employing mechanical actuators with potential mass gain. In this article, theoretical and computational fluid dynamics investigations of counterflow fluidic thrust vectoring technique of a rectangular nozzle are carried through. A new engineering-type analytical approach based on mass and momentum conservation laws applied to specific control volumes is developed to predict the vectoring performance. Furthermore, the performance of the vectoring technique is computationally clarified for diverse nozzle pressure ratios (NPRs) and secondary pressure ratios (SPRs). Obtained conclusions indicate that the vectoring deflection angle diminishes with an increase in the NPR, whereas the thrust vectoring efficiency coefficient increases. The vectoring deflection angle and the thrust vectoring efficiency coefficient increase with a decrease in the SPR.