Air Pressure Probe Vortex Generators Supercritical Flow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing air pressure probes are limited by their inability to measure three-dimensional gas flow parameters, have a restricted operational range due to Reynolds number and flow speed limitations, and feature complex designs that are not practical for real-world flying vehicles due to size and surface smoothness requirements.
Innovation Solution
The air pressure probe incorporates vortex generators on its surface, such as ribs or protrusions, to induce supercritical flow-around across the entire subsonic range of speeds and Reynolds numbers, simplifying the design and expanding its practical applicability by using a convex polyhedron shape with 12 intake holes and a multi-sided cylinder support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a smooth spherical head part is used, then the flow-around remains laminar in subcritical regime, but the measurement range is limited by Reynolds numbers and flow speed
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the surface parameter of the head part by introducing vortex generators (ribs or protrusions), which fundamentally alters the flow regime from laminar subcritical to turbulent supercritical, thereby expanding the operational range across all subsonic speeds while maintaining measurement reliability
2Loss of time
If the head part diameter is increased to improve signal passage, then the pneumatic channel delays are reduced, but the Reynolds number range becomes restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By changing the flow regime through vortex generators, the invention decouples the relationship between head part size and Reynolds number range, allowing larger diameters to be used without restricting the measurable Reynolds number range, thus reducing signal passage delays
3Adaptability or versatility
If vortex generators are added to achieve supercritical flow-around, then the operational range is expanded, but the surface quality requirements are simplified
Solution Approach 1:
The invention intentionally introduces surface features (vortex generators) that transform the flow regime, thereby inverting the usual requirement where smoother surfaces are needed for laminar flow. Here, controlled surface irregularities are beneficial to achieve the desired supercritical flow and expand operational range
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design achieves supercritical flow-around across the entire subsonic range, enhances the operational range of oncoming flow speeds, simplifies the design, and widens the practical applicability, allowing for accurate measurement of speed vectors and static pressure across a broader range of conditions, including in real flying vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the head part surface is provided with vortex generators to initiate supercritical flow-around and to eliminate influence by the Re number
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to the field of aviation and to devices for determining aircraft flight parameters or wind tunnel flow parameters. The present device consists of a head part with intake holes located thereon, which are connected by channels to couplers, and a support, attached to the head part from behind. The surface of the head part is provided with vortex generators. The vortex generators can be in the form of indentations or protrusions of various shapes on the surface of the air pressure probe, or in the form of ribs formed as a result of the mating of elements of the flat or curved planes that form the surfaces of the head part and the support. The technical result is an increased operational range of measurement and a wider field of practical application.