Effect of moving surfaces on the airfoil boundary-layer control

Abstract

The concept of moving surface boundary-layer control, as applied to a Joukowsky airfoil is investigated through a planned experimental program complemented by a flow visualisation study. The moving surface was provided by rotating cylinders located at the leading and trailing edges of the airfoil. The leading-edge rotating cylinders extends the lift curve without substantially affecting its slope, thus effectively increasing the maximum lift and delaying stall. A flow visualisation study substantiates effectiveness of the concept.