Effect of wing tip vortex reversal

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In summary, wingtip vortices are a source of drag and it is possible to suppress them through good airfoil design.
  • #1
fayaazhussain
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If there was any possibility of reversing the direction of wing tip vortices, what would the effects be? Is there any chance of increasing the thrust or lift?
For example the right wing tip produces clockwise vortices and the left wing tip produces counter clockwise vortices(Aircraft viewed from back). What will happen if we somehow reverse the directions? i.e making right wing tip produce counter clockwise vortices and left wing tip produce clockwise vortices?
 
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  • #2
possibility of reversing the direction of wing tip vortices
You can try to suppress them through proper airfoil design.

The affect you be less or null vibratory forces onto the airfoil or wing.
 
  • #3
The affect onto the lift is a much more complicated problem. We can't simply say it will or won't increase lift if you suppress the shedding.
 
  • #4
The problem with this thought experiment is that the wingtip vortices are a product of the flow over the wing. You can't change them without fundamentally changing the flow over the wing, so this hypothetical situation doesn't really make sense.
 
  • #5
But wingtips are being used to eliminate them without changing the flow right?
 
  • #6
Wingtips? You mean winglets? Not exactly. Winglets and raked wingtips essentially take the wingtip vortices and move them to a new location that has less effect on the lift-generating portions of the wings.
 
  • #7
If designed the wing so that area near the tip was generating a downward force then the tip vortices would rotate in the opposite direction. But that is obviously not a good thing. The problem is that regardless of the direction they are rotating in they still result in drag. This is because energy is still spent making the air rotate. If you were to try some kind of flow control such as suction or blowing near the tip then it might be possible but it would probably require too much energy so it wouldn't be worth it. You are better off with a high aspect ration wing, well designed winglets and a good load distribution.
 

1. What is a wing tip vortex reversal?

A wing tip vortex reversal is a phenomenon that occurs when the air flow over the wing of an aircraft is disturbed and creates a swirling vortex at the wing tip. This vortex can cause drag and affect the performance of the aircraft.

2. How does wing tip vortex reversal affect aircraft performance?

Wing tip vortex reversal can create drag and decrease the lift of an aircraft, which can result in decreased efficiency and increased fuel consumption. It can also cause turbulence and affect the stability of the aircraft, making it more difficult to control.

3. What factors contribute to wing tip vortex reversal?

The shape and size of the wing, the airspeed of the aircraft, and the angle of attack all play a role in the formation of wing tip vortex reversal. Additionally, weather conditions such as wind can also affect the strength and behavior of the vortex.

4. How can wing tip vortex reversal be reduced or eliminated?

There are several design features that can help reduce or eliminate wing tip vortex reversal, such as winglets or wing tip fences. These structures help to disrupt the airflow and minimize the formation of the vortex. Additionally, changing the shape or angle of the wing can also have an impact on reducing wing tip vortex reversal.

5. What are the potential safety concerns related to wing tip vortex reversal?

Wing tip vortex reversal can be a safety concern for aircraft flying in close proximity, such as during takeoff and landing. The vortex can create turbulence and affect the stability of nearby aircraft, so pilots must be aware of this phenomenon and take appropriate precautions.

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