Visualizing flow in the Space Shuttle Main Engine

Abstract

Ongoing work is described aimed at applying advanced post-processing techniques to interpret and understand the complex flow behavior of the Space Shuttle Main Engine. The use of color graphics and powerful new engineering work stations to effectively present massive amounts of numerical data is emphasized. This combination of tools can result in better designs, faster turnaround, and more complete understanding of complex engineering systems like the Shuttle. Furthermore, it allows engineers access to the massive amounts of data generated by supercomputers and provides a more efficient coupling of man and supercomputer.