Numerical solution of the problem concerning the focusing of shock waves produced by a supersonic aircraft

A method is proposed for calculating the parameters of a sonic boom associated with the focusing of shock waves. In accordance with the approach proposed here, results of quasi-linear theory are used as the starting data for a numerical calculation of the gas parameters behind focused shock waves in the regions where quasi-linear theory does not apply. The algorithm for computing the focusing of shock waves is based on Godunov's difference scheme used in conjunction with a dynamic difference grid coupled with isolated shock waves. For the problem of a sonic boom from a thin body in supersonic flight with acceleration along a straight trajectory, the regions where quasi-linear theory is valid are determined. Expressions are obtained which relate the amplification factors of the focused shock waves to the flight conditions.