On Optimum Profiles in Axisymmetric Stokes Flow

Abstract

In the preceding paper the authors made an attempt to obtain optimum profiles with minimum drag in two-dimensional Stokes flow, using an inverse method for optimization developed by Bessho. The present analysis is an application of the same method to three-dimensional Stokes flow. The elementary optimum shape with a prescribed volume which is obtained by the present computation, is found to be entirely similar to the result by Bourot. Other optimum shapes with various restrictions are also obtained. It is found that the optimum shape in the present analysis is quite similar to other cases based on flow models like boundary layer flow and two-dimensional Stokes flow.