Hypersonic waverider variable leading edge flaps

摘要

A hypersonic aircraft producing a shock wave during hypersonic flight. The shape of the shock wave changes depending upon changes in Mach speed and angle of attack, the latter of which can vary significantly with flight dynamic pressure. The aircraft includes a body, a pair of wings coupled to the body (or a wing-body) having leading edges, and a deflectable flap system operably coupled to the hinge line of each of the pair of wings. The flap system is positionable in a plurality of positions relative to the pair of wings so as to achieve a generally optimal position capable of maintaining attachment of the shock wave along the leading edge of the flap system at hypersonic speeds. A controller is further operably coupled to the deflectable flap systems for determining the optimal position and outputting a signal that drives the flap system.