The Path Angles and Angles of Attack and Drift for Large Motions of a Moving Body in a Moving Fluid

摘要

The linear-velocity kinematics of a body moving through a moving or stationary fluid are discussed. Three distinct velocities are considered: the absolute velocity of the body, the absolute velocity of the fluid, and the velocity of the body relative to the fluid. Exact expressions are derived for obtaining information about any one of the three velocities when certain data are known about the remaining two. Among the more utilitarian expressions offered are those for evaluating path angles and angles of attack and drift. Because exact solutions are given, there is no limitation on the severity of the maneuvers to which they may be applied. The application of the results to a few extreme maneuvers is illustrated by numerical examples. (Author)