A Propulsion Concept for Circulation Control Wing Technology

Circulation control wing (CCW) technology has been in the research and development phase for over sixty years with a minimal amount of practical applications to subsonic transport aircraft. The concept is based on the use of high pressure Coanda jet air that is diverted from the fan or compressor of the main turbofan engines; however, this can create a significant decrease in engine performance. This paper will provide the background of past CCW research and conclude with recommendations for a conceptual design for a circulation control wing that implements multiple, lightweight gas generators, which are separate from the main aircraft engines that provide high pressure air or exhaust gas to the wing leading and trailing.