Nonlinear input/output analysis: application to boundary layer transition

We extend linear input/output (resolvent) analysis to take into account nonlinear triadic interactions by considering a finite number of harmonics in the frequency domain using the harmonic balance method. Forcing mechanisms that maximise the drag are calculated using a gradient-based ascent algorithm. By including nonlinearity in the analysis, the proposed frequency-domain framework identifies the worst-case disturbances for laminar-turbulent transition. We demonstrate the framework on a flat-plate boundary layer by considering three-dimensional spanwise-periodic perturbations triggered by a few optimal forcing modes of finite amplitude. Two types of volumetric forcing are considered, one corresponding to a single frequency/spanwise wavenumber pair, and a multi-harmonic where a harmonic frequency and wavenumber are also added. Depending on the forcing strategy, we recover a range of transition scenarios associated with -type and -type mechanisms, including oblique and planar Tollmien-Schlichting waves, streaks and their breakdown. We show that nonlinearity plays a critical role in optimising growth by combining and redistributing energy between the linear mechanisms and the higher perturbation harmonics. With a very limited range of frequencies and wavenumbers, the calculations appear to reach the early stages of the turbulent regime through the generation and breakdown of hairpin and quasi-streamwise staggered vortices.

Automated summary

This study extends linear resolvent analysis to account for nonlinear triadic interactions in the frequency domain using the harmonic balance method. By including nonlinearity, the framework identifies worst-case disturbances for laminar-turbulent transition. The calculations reach early stages of the turbulent regime through generation and breakdown of perturbation vortices.