Numerical Investigations of Vortical Flow on Swept Wings with Round Leading Edges

Abstract

The present work is investigating the vortex-dominated flow physics as well as the aerodynamic behavior of swept wing configurations with round leading edges. The research is based on numerical simulations using the computational fluid dynamics method DLR TAU. The target configurations are swept wings of constant aspect ratio, variable leading-edge contours, and leading-edge sweep angles. The work deals with the onset of the vortical flow at the leading edge for constant and variable leading-edge nose radii, the influence of the angle of attack, the leading-edge sweep, and the onflow Mach number. Furthermore, the aerodynamic behavior is analyzed and assessed, as well as the specific flow physics in the vicinity of the vortical flow separation at round leading edges. The objective of the present work is to provide a contribution for the design and assessment of the physical characteristics of swept wing configurations. Furthermore, sensitivities will be given for the design process. In addition, the current investigation provides a deeper understanding of the separation onset process and the flow physics of swept wing configurations with round leading edges.