Classification of shock wave reflections from a wedge. Part 1: Boundaries and domains of existence for different types of reflections

Classification of various types of the reflections of a shock wave over straight wedge is supposed. The idea about entire reflection phenomenon as a result of interaction of two processes–the shock wave refection process and the flow deflection process–serves as a basis for the classification. To recognize the types of reflection, changes in the shapes of the reflected wave, Mach stem and contact surface are taken into account. The boundaries and domains of existence for various types of reflection are reported. New names for some types of reflection are proposed.