Studies of Hingeline Gap, Trailing Edge Treatment, Lower Surface Deflector on Spoiler Characteristics and Flow

Wind tunnel test have been conducted to determine effects of certain design variables on spoiler performance and spoiler flow field characteristics.

Measurements include forces, oil flow surveys on a vertical splitter plate, and wake velocity and turbulence measurements using a dual split-film anemometer system. Results include the effects of spoiler design variables, such as: hingeline gap, lower surface venting and deflector, spoiler trailing edge notching and spoiler porosity. Hingeline gap, porosity, lower surface venting and lower surface deflector can be designed to reduce control dead-band tendency. Wake turbulence studies show that certain modifications can be utilized to diminish peak frequencies in the wake.