Research

Dr. Rival’s primary research interests are in low-speed aerodynamics and hydrodynamics, with particular focus on highly unsteady, separated (vortical) flows. Although his research interests are fundamental in nature, there are numerous applications that span across a large range of Reynolds numbers from pulsatile (transitional) flow in human arteries up to dynamic-stall events on large wind turbines operating in the atmospheric boundary layer. To further exemplify the diversity of scales, some of the current research topics include the study of evolutionary convergence of marine and aerial locomotion of fish, birds, insects, mammals and even extinct species such as anomalocarids. These studies provide engineers insight into the development of Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs), Micro Aerial Vehicles (MAVs) as well as the design and operation of propellers, rotors and even water turbines in highly unsteady inflow conditions.

To learn more about Dr. Rival's research, publications, students, facilities and more visit www.rivallab.com