Use of a Linear Discretization of the Velocity Potential in the Frequency-Domain Linear Potential Flow Theory

This study investigates the use of a linear discretization of the velocity potential in a frequency-domain potential flow based solver. The velocity potential is assumed to vary linearly over each panel. This approach differs from the Constant Panel Method (CPM), classically used in diffraction-radiation codes. The linear discretization is studied as a possible interesting strategy in terms of accuracy and CPU time. The first goal of this study is the presentation of the impact of the linear discretization in the equations of the potential flow theory. The second goal is the quantification of its interest in terms of accuracy and CPU time compared to the Constant Panel Method.