Accuracy of an Inverse Method of Characteristics for Multidimensional Steady Supersonic Flow

Summary

The accuracy of a 2-D and a 3-D inverse method of characteristics is determined by a comparison of numerical with analytical solutions. The order of convergence of the methods is numerically exemplified. The accuracy of the boundary algorithm is determined separately and compared with the accuracy of the field calculation. The loss in accuracy due to an insufficient representation of the analytical domain of dependence is determined, especially for the 3-D method. The accuracy of the 3-D field calculations is analysed particularly for large domains of integration.