Vortex Generator Fin Arrangement for Lower Parasitic Drag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vortex generators increase maximum lift but also increase parasitic drag, which is undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A vortex generator design with fins arranged to form a cooperating system, where the airflow from one fin is directed towards the next, creating a single vortex, and using aerofoil-shaped fins with concave portions to reduce drag while maintaining or enhancing lift.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional vortex generators are used to increase maximum lift, then lift coefficient is improved, but parasitic drag increases
Solution Approach 1:
The vortex generator is divided into multiple fins (first fin, second fin, etc.) arranged in series along the chord line. Each fin generates a vortex that influences the boundary layer, with the fins working cooperatively to achieve the desired lift enhancement while managing drag through their sequential arrangement and interaction with the airflow.
Solution Approach 2:
The fins are positioned at specific locations along the chord line with varying characteristics. The first fin is positioned to generate a vortex that affects the boundary layer at a particular location, while subsequent fins are arranged to continue this effect along the chord. The spacing and positioning are optimized to achieve local improvements in boundary layer energization without excessive drag penalty.
2Strength
If multiple fins are arranged adjacently along the longitudinal axis to increase effectiveness, then lift is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple fins are combined into a single integrated vortex generator assembly that functions as a cooperative system. The fins are arranged in series along the chord line with spacing optimized so that the airflow from one fin is directed towards the next, creating a unified vortex generation system that achieves greater effectiveness than a single fin while managing complexity through functional integration.
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
The new design reduces parasitic drag while maintaining or improving lift, offering a more efficient and cost-effective solution compared to prior art vortex generators.
Implementation Method 1
the first fin affects the flow of air passing the first fin such that it is directed towards the second fin... the first fin and the second fin are arranged such that the first fin affects the flow of air passing the first fin such that it is directed towards the second fin
Implementation Method 2
This delays flow separation of the boundary layer as the vortex entrains higher energy fluid away from the surface and draws it down to energize the boundary layer
Implementation Method 3
the first fin has a non-zero camber, in that the cross section of the pressure surface of the first fin comprises a concave portion... the first fin has a non-zero camber
Data Source
AI summary
Vortex generator comprising a first fin and a second fin, said first fin being arranged upstream of said second fin. The first fin and the second fin are arranged such that the shortest distance between the trailing edge of the first fin and the leading edge of the second fin is less than 50% of the length of the first fin and such that the first fin and the second fin are arranged such that the first fin affects the flow of air passing the first fin such that it is directed towards the second fin. In this way a vortex generator is provided which shows lower drag while maintaining the same lift improvement as prior art type vortex generators.