Wind Tunnel Test Studies of Wing in Ground Effect Aerodynamics

Abstract:

Deep study on ground effect mechanism and aerodynamic characteristics of wing in ground effect was carried out based on wind tunnel test in Aerodynamics/Aero acoustic Wind Tunnel of Shanghai Automotive Wind Tunnel Center of Tongji University. Relative motion between wing and ground in cruising was simulated by the moving belt system; span dominated ground effect was systematically investigated by changing span or taking account the endplates; stall characteristics of wing in ground effect was also discussed for different flight height and span. In the study, mechanism of ground effect was further revealed, importance of moving ground simulation was disclosed and aerodynamics of wing in ground effect was comprehensively analyzed through the experimental studies, which provide important reference for aerodynamic design and research of wind in ground(WIG) craft.

Key words:ground effect; aerodynamics; viscous effect; aspect ratio; stall; wind tunnel test