Measurement of the Trailing Vortex Systems of Large Transport Aircraft, Using Tower Fly-by and Flow Visualization (Summary, Comparison and Application)

Abstract

Full-scale flight test investigations have been made of the characteristics, persistance and movement of the trailing vortices generated by propeller and jet transport aircraft. The tests were performed by the National Aviation Facilities Experimental Center (NAFEC), Atlantic City, New Jersey, during the period 1970-1973, using tower fly-by and vortex flow visualization. The results are summarized and comparisons made of the vortices of the Douglas DC10, DC9, and DC7; Boeing 747, 727, and 707; Lockheed C5A, C141, and L1011; and the Convair 880 aircraft. Vortex mathematical models and decay mechanisms are discussed and their effects (upset potential) on encountering aircraft are investigated for possible air traffic control application.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1976
Accession Number
ADA021305

Entities

People

  • David M. Lawrence
  • Leo J. Garodz
  • Nelson J. Miller

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aerodynamic Configurations
  • Air Force
  • Aircraft Equipment
  • Aircraft Wings
  • Aircrafts
  • Airframes
  • Atmospheric Motion
  • Boundary Layer
  • Cargo Aircraft
  • Flow Visualization
  • High Lift
  • High Lift Devices
  • Jet Transport Aircraft
  • Leading Edge Flaps
  • Swept Wings
  • Transport Aircraft
  • Turbulence

Fields of Study

  • Engineering
  • Physics

Readers

  • Aviation Safety and Air Traffic Management
  • Fluid Mechanics and Fluid Dynamics.