Published online by Cambridge University Press: 04 July 2016
A windtunnel study was undertaken to determine the effectiveness of leading edge vortex plates in enhancing the lifting abilities of a blunt edged delta wing. In the investigation, vortex plates were attached to both the upper and lower surfaces of the leading edge. Various positions of the vortex plates with respect to the wing's leading edge were evaluated. The results indicate that a vortex plate located on the upper surface of the wing is capable of increasing lift so as to be comparable to a similar sharp edged wing, whilst reducing drag through some retained leading edge thrust. The increase in zero lift drag associated with vortex plate attachment tends to limit potential performance improvements. A vortex plate mounted on the lower wing surface decreased lift slightly compared to the blunt wing. However, drag was found to decrease markedly.