Exploration of a Low-Speed, Flapped, Slotted, Natural-Laminar-Flow Airfoil

What is it about?

The design and testing of a new slotted, natural-laminar-flow (SNLF) airfoil is presented and discussed. SNLF airfoils can produce a significant amount of lift, relative to most single-element airfoils, while also being efficient in cruising flight. This SNLF airfoil was designed with a simple flap in the aft element to be used as a flap or aileron on a wing. The airfoil was tested in a high-quality wind tunnel with various flap settings to verify its performance and the effect of the flap, which demonstrated that the flap is suitable for increasing the lift potential of the airfoil or being used for roll control.

Featured Image