NLF / hybrid laminar flow control technology optimized and integrated into overall aircraft (in connection with CS2 HLFC-Wing) - HGF Milestone Report

Kurzfassung

Laminar flow holds the potential of significantly reducing energy consumption during flight and consequently represents one of the key technologies to help achieving the ambitious goal of decarbonizing air-travel. This HGF milestone report gives an overview of DLR's long term technology path for laminarity and highlights recent efforts in optimizing Natural and Hybrid Laminar Flow Control (NLF/HLFC) and integrating it into the overall aircraft. All these activities contributed to the achievement of this milestone, which is finalised by this report. DLR was and is involved as a driving force in the concept development, verification and validation, and ultimately also the optimisation and integration of various laminar flow technologies. The focus has been put on advancements in the field of key technology enablers, such as: - Forward swept NLF wing design - CATNLF laminar airfoil design - Efficient HLFC system design - Advanced HLFC suction surfaces - The Krüger high-lift System - Industrialized manufacturing methods for HLFC components - Refined tolerances for surface irregularities on laminar structures - Laminar surface joints - A HLFC-compatible ice protection system - Bird strike resistant HLFC leading-edge - Wave drag reduction through morphing shock control bumps (SCB) - Advanced transition prediction and numerical HLFC design capabilities For each individual enabling technology the report gives an overview on the current status and also indication on technological white spots and future research opportunities. Detailed integrational studies involving research as well as industrial partners evaluate and raised the individual technology readiness level as well as economical viability and quantified the overall energy saving potential of laminarization on aircraft level.