Prediction of unsteady aerodynamic loadings caused by leading edge and trailing edge control surface motions in subsonic compressible flow: Analysis and results

Abstract

A theoretical analysis and computer program was developed for the prediction of unsteady lifting surface loadings caused by motions of leading edge and trailing edge control surfaces having sealed gaps. The final form of the downwash integral equation was formulated by isolating the singularities from the nonsingular terms and using a preferred solution process to remove and evaluate the downwash discontinuities in a systematic manner. Comparisons of theoretical and experimental pressure data are made for several control surface configurations. The comparisons indicate that reasonably accurate theoretical pressure distributions and generalized forces may be obtained for a wide variety of control surface configurations. Spanwise symmetry or antisymmetry of motion, and up to six control surfaces on each half span can be accommodated