The determination of the pressure distribution over an aerofoil surface by means of an electrical potential analyser

Abstract

The potential flow, both with and without circulation, around several thin aeroplane wings has been studied by means of a three-dimensional potential analyser. It is shown that, by using the normal assumptions made in the exercise of the linear perturbation theory, it is possible to obtain the pressure distribution for small angles of incidence, as well as the slope of the lift-incidence curve, easily and rapidly. Experiments are also described in which it was attempted to remove the effect of boundary restraint in a manner analogous to that used in a flexible-walled wind tunnel. Suggestions are made for producing a potential analyser of increased scope together with the possibility of extending the work to curved and twisted thin wings.