Recent studies at NASA-Langley of vortical flows interacting with neighboring surfaces

Abstract : Leading-edge vortical flows, which occur near and interact with neighboring surfaces, are of great interest in a variety of civil and military aircraft applications. This paper summarizes recent work in this area conducted or sponsored by NASA Langley Research Center since the 1978 AGARD Conference on 'High Angle of Attack Aerodynamics'. In particular, the cumulative results of a number theoretical and experimental studies are discussed. These studies have been carried out so as to gain a better understanding of, and be better able to utilize, this kind of flow. Much of the effort has been spent in improving the lift-to-drag ratio and pitch characteristics for wings in this flow; however, some effort has also been expended to examine the unsteady and lateral characteristics. Though much research has been accomplished, much remains to be done in order for these vortical flows to be treated with the same degree of confidence in the design of an aerospace vehicle as is currently done with attached flows. (Author)