FLIGHT CONTROL OF A SPIN STABILISED AXI-SYMMETRIC DISC-WING
(AIAA-2001-0253)

AIAA-2001-0253.pdf
(1.2Mb)

Jonathan R. Potts & William J. Crowther
Aerospace Group, School of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, University of Manchester, UK

Abstract
A review of air-vehicles with circular planform ie disc-wings includes examples of mid-20^th century innovation and recent developments in UAV (unnamed air vehicle) technology. A spin stabilised axi-symmetric disc-wing has potential application as a highly manoeuvrable, unpowered unmanned air vehicle or guided projectile. This paper considers the means by which aerodynamic control moments can be generated on such a disc-wing. The present experimental investigation outlines the aerodynamics of a spin stabilised axi-symmetric disc-wing and documents the aerodynamic differences of a disc-wing with forced transition strips installed on the disc rim. It is proposed that these differences are achievable by a similar active flow control method such as active turbulent strips, vortex generators or synthetic (massless) jets as a means to aerodynamic control of the disc in flight. A simple analysis of disc-wing flight manoeuvres predicts the turning radius and time period of a 90 degree banked turn based on experimental data.

Reference in Full
Potts J.R. & Crowther W.J., Flight Control of a Spin Stabilised Axi-symmetric Disc-wing, AIAA 2001-0253, 39th Aero. Sci. Meet & Exhibit, Reno, NV, USA, Jan. 2001.