US Patent 10907669 Methods and apparatus for controlling flow fields

Methods and systems for controlling a fluid flow field near a surface are disclosed. In some embodiments, the system includes an array of oscillating bodies disposed on the surface to provide physical modification to the flow field. Fluid jets are also emitted from an outlet in the oscillating body to provide virtual modification of the flow field through momentum addition. Fluid jet sources, including synthetic jet generators such as piezoelectric drivers and sources of compressed fluids such as air or water, are positioned to be in fluid communication with the outlet at intervals during the oscillation of the oscillating body. Controlling the oscillation amplitude and frequency of the body, as well as the location of oscillating body outlets and frequency of fluid jet emission, have advantageous effects for the surface such as improved heat transfer properties and reduction in structural vibration and noise.