Use of Leading Edge Waves to Increase Lift/Drag Ratio

One of the goals of NASA's Fundamental Aeronautics "Subsonic Fixed Wing" project is to reduce fuel burn by 25% 5% by 2018. This corresponds approximately to an increase in Lift/Drag ratio of the same magnitude. While the improvement in design tools funded by NASA will undoubtedly help attain this goal the innovation proposed here is an addition to this effort. In other words, any improvements in performance due to the innovation should be added to any improvements due to the use of new design tools. The innovation proposed here is a "leading edge wave" in which the leading edge of a wing is described by a high frequency, low amplitude wave, rather than the more conventional straight line. Previous results have indicated that such a leading edge can lead to improvements in Lift/Drag ratio of 15%.

The innovation will improve the efficiency of UAVs and other air vehicles of interest to the Department of Defense. It will also be of interest to designers and manufacturers of UAVs since the innovation will improve the competitiveness of their designs.

The innovation will help NASA in reaching its goals for improving the competitiveness of the national aerospace industry by helping designers to develop more fuel efficient aircraft and UAVs. It will also improve the efficiency of planetary probes designed by NASA that must use aerodynamic lift.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 6) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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