Hybrid Flow Control Method for Simple Hinged Flap High-Lift System

NASA's Langley Research Center has created a novel process that significantly improves the effectiveness of high-lift devices on aircraft wings by utilizing a hybrid concept of both sweeping jet (SWJ) actuators for active flow control (AFC) and adaptive vortex generators (AVGs) for passive flow control. High-lift technology reshapes aircraft wings for more lift during takeoff and landing. Conventional high-lift devices are complex and employ a significant number of parts. In addition, these complex mechanical high-lift systems (e.g., Fowler flap mechanisms) often protrude externally under the wings, resulting in increased cruise drag. Simple hinged flaps are preferable high-lift devices for low-drag cruise performance, but they are vulnerable to flow separation at high flap deflections for both trailing edge and leading edge applications. This innovation achieves higher flap deflections without flow separation while minimizing the pneumatic power requirement of AFC.