Airstream modification device for airfoils
AssigneeGates Learjet Corporation
InventorsKarl M. Schenk, Peter T. Reynolds, M. H. Abla, Robert K. Wattson, Jr.
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Abstract
An airfoil modification device that helps maintain airstream attachment to either upper or lower airfoil surfaces, the device in the form of a plurality of spaced, low profile rods arranged generally end-to-end and attached to the airfoil and generally normal to the airstream to define a serrated edge that induces multi-directional airstream turbulence.
Claims17
In an airstream flow modification device of the type secured to and extending beyond a normaly smooth contour surface of an aircraft airfoil to project into an airstream boundary layer and delay the onset of airstream flow separation from the airfoil while operating at higher aircraft speeds at Mach numbers of about 0.6 to about 0.9 when the airstream near the airfoil accelerates to supersonic speeds, the improvement comprising:
- a plurality of spaced, generally rod shaped elements arranged generally end to end in at least one row and extending from said airfoil surface, each element having a height less than the boundary layer thickness formed at said aircraft speeds and a length oriented generally normal to the airstream flow within a range of about -30 degrees to about +30 degrees from a normal to the airstream flow.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.