Fluid-Structure Interaction: Simulation of vortex induced vibration

This example shows a benchmark problem, which has be investigated by some research groups in the recent years to prove their own FSI-coupling algorithms. Within only one day we have been able to model and calculate the problem accurately and efficiently. 

Figure 1 shows the geometry and the modeling considerations of the problem. Initially being in rest the flexible structure starts to vibrate due to the shedding of vortices behind the rigid body. A periodic oscillation takes place after some cycles .

The animations show the periodic oscillation.

Figure 1: Modeling and flow considerations

Figure 2: Deflection at the tip of the flexible structure

Animation 1: Velocity vectors total model

Animation 2: Velocity detail model

click on the images to enlarge or  to start the animation

We obtain a very good agreement with the results reported by other investigators. E.g. Steindorf estimates a tip displacement of 1 m during the periodic oscillation (here 0.95).

Ref: J. Steindorf "Partitionierte Verfahren für Probleme der Fluid-Struktur Wechselwirkungen", Thesis, Braunschweig, 2002, Germany