On some dynamical problems related to boundary layer turbulence

A number of simplified dynamical problems is studied in an attempt to clarify some of the mechanisms leading to turbulence and the existing proposals to control this transition. A simplified set of boundary layer equations displays a solution that corresponds to the rolls and streaks instability and exhibits its streamwise localized nature. The effect of random phases as a device to control the transfer of energy to the small scales is studied both for the shell and the boundary layer models. In spite of the simplified nature of the models, they also provide some insight on the prospects for active turbulence control by external body forces.