Investigation and Comparison of the Aerodynamic Performance of Selected Hang-Glider Airfoil Sections

摘要

Tests were made on two dimensional full scale wind tunnel models of hang glider airfoil sections with end plates at Re = 720,000 based on chord. Aerodynamic force coefficients were determined by analysis of pressure distributions measured using a pressure transducer, through a chordline incidence range of -10 to 30 deg. Seven models of various cambers and thickness-to-chord ratios, constructed in a similar manner to contemporary hang gliders, were tested. Comparisons of the glide angle and sinking speed behavior throughout the incidence range are made with a contemporary hang glider airfoil section. Improvements to minimum glide angle, minimum sinking speed and maximum lift are made, but usually to the detriment of other aspects of the performance.