Summary
The number of aerodynamic systems that can be found is incredibly large. Here we
present a short (and by any means incomplete) list of systems that are related with
the aerodynamics topics discussed in linked pages.
Single components are basic aerodynamic shapes that are generally studied alone:
airfoils and wings are among the most well known. Other components are only used as
add-ons to promote specific aerodynamic performances, for example slots, dams,
spoilers, fairings, fences, canards, strakes, flaps, vortex generators, splitter
plates, tip devices, etc.
Fixed-Wing Aircraft
McDonnell-Douglas C-17 on a demonstration flight. The plane is designed for take off
and landing on short runways. High lift systems are required.
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Helicopter and VSTOL aircraft
The helicopter and some V/STOL aircraft belong to the category of rotary-wing powered
aircraft. This is a class of vehicles on its own, with peculiar aerodynamic and
control problems. The first helicopters flew many years after the airplanes. Other
V/STOL aircraft feature complex lifting systems, such as vertical jets and tilt
rotors.
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Lighter-than-Air Systems
Lighter-than-air are basically balloons and airships (or dirigibles). The balloons
are the first machines that were able to lift from the ground with a man on
board. Airships came at a much later time, and they are usually associated with
pleasure journeys across the Atlantic or major disasters (or both). Either way,
lighter-than-air have captured the fantasy of many, not least writers of fiction...
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Aerodynamic Decelerators
Aerodynamic decelerators include parachutes, thrust reversal
systems and aerodynamic brakes, although only the first ones (broadly called
parachutes) are generally
treated in this category. Parachutes have many applications in military
operations, deployment of payload, rescue operations and sports, as shown
in the photo at right.
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Wind Energy Systems
Wind energy systems are among the most advanced clean technologies (though not in the
form showed at right). Many wind turbines are now connected to the electric utility
networks and produce considerables amounts of energy. The modern variable- pitch
horizontal-axis wind turbines (HAWT) are able to work in almost any metereological
condition.
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Racing Cars
Indy CART racing car (Michael Andretti driver). Aerodynamics has a strong impact on
car performance. Engineers find yet new ways to produce downforce.
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Wind Tunnel Testing
Wind tunnel testing is one of the most time consuming, yet effective tools for design
and research. Tunnel testing is now integrated with sophisticated CFD methods to save
development costs.
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Buildings Aerodynamics
A wide variety of buildings is subject to particularly strong aerodynamic
forces. These systems include industrial towers, long suspension bridges, and
off-shore platforms. The figure at right shows two industrial towers equipped with
spirals in order to reduce the vortex drag. This technical solution serves to promote
turbulent separation around a cylinder, thus creating a drag crisis at lower
wind speeds.
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Related Topics
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Copyright ©
A. Filippone (1999-2004). All Rights Reserved.
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