초록 ▼

A flow control device is disclosed including a flow control surface over which fluid is designed to flow in a predetermined direction. Vortex generators are associated with the flow control surface. Each respective vortex generator has a pivot axis that forms an acute angle with respect to the prede

A flow control device is disclosed including a flow control surface over which fluid is designed to flow in a predetermined direction. Vortex generators are associated with the flow control surface. Each respective vortex generator has a pivot axis that forms an acute angle with respect to the predetermined direction and is capable of being positioned in both of an extended state, in which the respective vortex generators function to create a swirling fluid flow, and a retracted state, in which the respective vortex generators are pivoted via the pivot axis so as to lie adjacent to the flow control surface. An actuator is associated with each of the vortex generators, each actuator adapted to position the associated vortex generator between the extended and retracted states. The flow control device is disclosed to be used in tiltrotor vehicles.

대표청구항 ▼

What is claimed is: 1. A flow control device comprising:vortex generators associated with a flow control surface of an aircraft over which fluid is designed to flow in a predetermined direction, each respective vortex generator having a pivot axis that forms an acute angle with respect to the predet

What is claimed is: 1. A flow control device comprising:vortex generators associated with a flow control surface of an aircraft over which fluid is designed to flow in a predetermined direction, each respective vortex generator having a pivot axis that forms an acute angle with respect to the predetermined direction and capable of being positioned in both of an extended state, in which the respective vortex generators function to create a swirling fluid flow, and a retracted state, in which the respective vortex generators are pivoted via the pivot axis so as to lie generally parallel to, and overlying and protruding from the flow control surface; andan actuator associated with each of the respective vortex generators, each actuator adapted to position the associated vortex generator reversibly between the extended and retracted states,wherein each of the respective vortex generators comprises a shape memory material, and wherein the actuator includes a heater configured to actuate the shape memory material from the retracted state to the extended state,wherein the vortex generators are spaced from a leading edge of the flow control surface.