Contours of streamwise velocity (lower figure) and far-field pressure at two discrete frequencies (upper figures) caused by turbulent flow past a model hydrofoil trailing-edge. The flow field is computed using large-eddy simulation, and the noise radiation is predicted by means of Lighthill's theory with an approximate, half-plane Green's function.

Noise generated by the turbulent flow field behind a hydrofoil is undesirable in a number of applications, and this project will attempt to reduce this noise generation through shape optimization. A shape optimization routine is being implemented into the LES trailing edge code. In this routine, we define a cost function based on the generated noise, and then allow a part of the surface shape to vary. Reduction of the cost function will result in a new foil shape with desirable properties.