THE AERODYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF NON-AERODYNAMIC SHAPES
Abstract
A wind tunnel investigation of three basic shapes (cubes, rectangles, and cylinders) was conducted to determine the aerodynamic characteristics of similar shaped cargos carried externally by helicopters or V/STOL aircraft. The ratio of side area to frontal area was used as a parameter to plot the lift, drag, and pitching moment versus angle of attack for the three shapes. The lift, drag, and pitching moment coefficients were plotted for angles of attack from +5 degrees to -90 degrees. The change in slopes of the pitching moment of both rectangles and cylinders was smooth and gradual indicating no rapid changes in static stability. By using a very flat nose fairing, it was possible to reduce the drag by 30% at 0 degrees angle of attack without increasing the forces at the larger angles of attack.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0838823
Entities
People
- Maurice J. Lehmann
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology