Derivation of analytic formulae for several resonance frequencies of the SparkJet actuator

Abstract

Building on previous research that emphasized the importance of focusing on resonance frequencies for a fundamental understanding of the thrust and complex internal flow phenomena of the SparkJet actuators, this study theoretically derives analytic formulae for several important resonance frequencies. The research addresses the typical configuration of the SparkJet actuators, which consists of a cylindrical cavity and orifice connected by a conical converging nozzle. While the resonance frequencies of the SparkJet actuators can be obtained by solving the eigenvalue problem presented in previous studies, this eigenvalue problem, despite being a typical boundary value problem in the form of an elliptic partial differential equation, is challenging to solve using conventional numerical methods such as iterative methods, because the eigenvalue is included as an unknown in the operator. Consequently, Boundary Element Method (BEM) or methods using the Green functions have been proposed to obtain numerical solutions, but these still require handling large matrix data, resulting in significant computational costs and memory consumption. To overcome this, the current study first simplifies the eigenvalue problem using the conformal mapping presented in previous research. Then, referencing prior studies that claim that three types of resonance frequencies (Helmholtz resonance frequency and resonance frequencies representing streamwise or radial directional oscillation) significantly affect the thrust of the SparkJet actuators, characteristics of these frequencies are mathematically defined. Using these mathematical characteristics, the study derives the asymptotic and approximate solutions of the simplified eigenvalue problem, from which the resonance frequencies are obtained. The analytic formulae proposed in this study theoretically explain the already known geometric tendencies of the resonance frequencies and reveal new geometric factors influencing resonance frequencies, which were previously unknown. This approach is expected to facilitate obtaining several important resonance frequencies of the SparkJet actuator more promptly and accurately and to provide a deeper understanding of the nature of the complex oscillation phenomena inside the actuator.