Fluid dynamics of unsteady separated flow. II - Lifting surfaces

An analytic method is described which uses static experimental data to predict the separated flow effect on rigid and elastic vehicle dynamics. Key parameters in the analytic relationship between steady and nonsteady aerodynamics are: the time lag occurring before a change of flow conditions can affect the separation-induced aerodynamic loads; the accelerated flow effect (i.e., the pressure gradient lag relative to the static aerodynamic characteristics); and the moving wall effect (i.e., the effect of the nonsteady boundary condition at the vehicle surface). Using the existing experimental data base, an analytic theory is formulated that can predict the separation-induced unsteady aerodynamics if the static characteristics are known from theory or experiment. Reference is made to increased-maneuverability advanced aircraft and to Space Shuttle Orbiter aerodynamics.