|
|
The Theory 'explaining' Vortex Generators
I say 'explaining' because I reckon the effect of vortex generators on aircraft wings was one of those innovations that was 'discovered' first and explained later.
Somewhat like the developement of dimples in golf balls. As I understand it, this came from golfers out on the fairways noticing that well-worn and battered golf balls went farther and truer than the new smooth ones of the day. Then the manufacturers did wind tunnel experiments to determine the best dimpled surface, and finally boffins applied aerodynamic theory to explain what was happening.
Aerodynamics is a science with many strange and mysterious surprises, especially when it gets into boundary layer interactions and effects. But it's what works in real life applications that really matters, so it's testing in that 'big wind tunnel in the sky' that excites me. I've really enjoyed testing and experimenting with vortex generators, and there's lots more yet to learn....
It's trully fascinating how such small devices can have such a dramatic effect on the aerodynamics of any wing! They aren't just a 'fix' for a sub-standard wing - they're an aerodynamic enhancement in their own right!
I won't try to explain the theory of how vortex generators do what they do - instead I'll refer you to an article already published that does it better than any I've found. Have a read of 'Vortex Generators: Band-Aids or Magic' by Mike Busch on AVweb - it's really excellent! |
