Aerodynamic Characteristics of Forward and Aft Swept Arrow Wings

Aerodynamic characteristics of forward and aft swept arrow wings that have precluded the wide-scale adoption of the forward swept wing planform has been reported. Little information is available on the effect of highly swept wings with forward sweep where flowseparation is enforced. The wing forms are displayed in the flow visualization section. Wind-tunnel tests were conducted in Embry Riddle's 2 × 2 feet blower wind tunnel. Force balance measurements were undertaken using a six-component NK sting balance. The wing was tested in both forward and aft sweep configurations. The effect of fore and aft root extensions were also evaluated. The forward extension (a strake) was beneficial when used in conjunction with the forward swept wing but detrimental when used with the aft swept wing. The opposite results were seen for the aft extension. Copyright © 2009 by Lance W. Traub. Published by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.