초록 ▼

A vehicular boundary layer control system utilizing a series of external perforation arrays and suction sources controlled by a digital signal processor or microprocessor. Each array of perforations in the outer vehicle skin is served by a plenum chamber, which is selectively isolable from a suction

A vehicular boundary layer control system utilizing a series of external perforation arrays and suction sources controlled by a digital signal processor or microprocessor. Each array of perforations in the outer vehicle skin is served by a plenum chamber, which is selectively isolable from a suction manifold. The desired vacuum for each individual plenum and associated array is determined through the sampling of the turbulence associated with that array as well as other sensed environmental parameters. Vacuum is maintained at the desired level in each plenum through the arbitration of various suction sources and the selective restriction of airflow from the plenum(s) to the suction manifold. For terrestrial aerodynamic vehicles, a series of moisture separators are included in the plenums to mitigate the effects of any ingested moisture. The system also includes provision to induce reverse flow through the suction manifold, plenums, and perforation arrays in order to purge the system of dust and other particulates, which may be ingested during operation.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A vehicle boundary layer control system, comprising:a plurality of perforations communicating with the surface of a vehicle, at least a portion of said surface being in communication with a boundary layer;a plurality of suction sources capable of providing a suction in at

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A vehicle boundary layer control system, comprising:a plurality of perforations communicating with the surface of a vehicle, at least a portion of said surface being in communication with a boundary layer;a plurality of suction sources capable of providing a suction in at least one of said perforations;a suction isolator for selectively isolating said perforations from said suction sources;a plurality of detectors for detecting parametric information relating to said boundary layer; anda controller receiving input from one or more of said detectors, said controller being operatively connected to and dynamically controlling said suction isolator and said suction sources.