Automatic vortex core detection

This case study presents applications of the eigenvector method to recent aeronautical studies at NASA Ames Research Center and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. We highlight its usefulness for detecting flow features such as vortex cores, vortex bursts, spiral vortex breakdowns, and vortex diffusion. The eigenvector method has also been used as a data analysis tool to guide an automatic mesh refinement program and improve the accuracy of a rotorcraft simulation.