Fluidic Fences for Improved Aerodynamics of Rotating Systems
Abstract
The fluidic fence concept has recently been established in fixed wing aerodynamics research ranging from laboratory to full-scale ground tests. The fences are produced by small high speed jets integrated into the aerodynamic surface with minimal interruption to the mold line. The efficacy of these devices (in both steady and sweeping mode) has been demonstrated on various 3D wing planforms. The jets act as a point source of momentum that interrupts the spanwise migration of vortical fluid. Thus, they are not a traditional means of boundary layer separation control in the 2D sense. The fluidic fence can result in lift, drag and/or pitch stability improvements depending on the geometry, orientation and speed of the jet. We propose to validate the fluidic fence concept for rotary systems, many of which include significant spanwise flow, under a short proof of concept grant to begin with. An existing rotor test facility located at the University of Arizona will be modified for this purpose. The fluidic fence concept will be evaluated based on both global (power and drag) and local measurements (tuft visualization and pressure sensitive paint). If successful and mutually agreed upon the study would be expanded to forward flight at various advance velocity ratios.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- May 07, 2018
- Source ID
- W911NF1710421
Entities
People
- Israel Wygnanski
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Arizona