Unsteady behavior of spiral leading-edge vortex breakdown

Unsteady characteristics of the leading-edge vortex breakdown on a 65-deg delta wing are investigated. Emphasis is placed on the longitudinal motion of the breakdown region and its spiral structure under static as well as dynamic conditions as they have an important impact on vehicle flight mechanics and may cause aeroelastic problems. The onset of the breakdown region is found to be highly unsteady, with axial fluctuations of up to 20 percent centerline chord. Under dynamic conditions important delays in the breakdown region are observed. (Author)