Experimental investigation of the aerodynamic characteristics of generic fan-in-wing configurations

This experimental investigation concentrates on the aerodynamic behaviour of a generic fan-in-wing configuration. The effects of the fan(s) onthe flow circulation in a short take-off and landing or a transition flight condition without ground effect are evaluated. A wind-tunnel model has been constructed and tested to quantify the acrodynamic effects. Force measurements, surface pressure measurements, stereo-particle image velocimetry and wool tufts flow visualisation are performed. Different fan-in-wing configurations with the fans rotating in the wing plane, one fan either at the rear or front part of the wing and two fans Eire compared to the closed wing without fans set as reference. A fan placed near the trailing edge improves significantly the lift coefficient due to a jet flap effect on the wing lower side combined with enhanced suction oil the wing upper side. The jet exiting the nozzle rolls up in a counter rotating pair of vortices affecting significantly the wing behaviour. This experimental investigation Constitutes also a useful database for further CFD comparison.