Augmentation of Vortex Lift by Spanwise Blowing

Abstract

An investigation has been conducted to evaluate the aerodynamic effects associated with blowing a jet spanwise over a wing's upper surface in a direction parallel to the leading edge. Experimental pressure and force data were obtained on wings with sweep angles of 30 and 45 degrees and showed that spanwise blowing aids in the formation and control of the leading-edge vortex and, hence, significantly improves the aerodynamic characteristics at high angles of attack. Full vortex section lift is achieved at the inboard span station with a small blowing rate, but successively higher blowing rates are necessary to attain the full vortex-lift level at increased span distances. Spanwise blowing generates large increases in lift at high angles of attack, improves the drag polars, and extends the linear pitching moment to high lifts.