Random Vibration of a Compliant Wall

A random vibration analysis for the response of a compliant wall, consisting of an elastic base plate, a low modulus viscoelastic substrate and stretched skin, subjected to turbulent boundary layer excitation is presented. Compliant walls have the potential to reduce aerodynamic drag in flight vehicles. The cross-power spectral density of surface displacement is calculated as a function of design variables. Three examples are presented and their response statistics are examined in relation to wave drag and roughness drag. Both subsonic and supersonic turbulence is considered. The work should be useful as a guideline for the experimental investigation of the drag reduction concept by the use of a compliant wall.