How to use formulas for a delta wing?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the application of aerodynamic formulas, specifically regarding the lift force in delta wing aircraft. Participants explore how to adapt traditional lift calculations, particularly in the absence of a horizontal tail, and consider the implications for stability and design.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how to apply lift force calculations for delta wings, particularly regarding the horizontal tail surface area (Sh) and whether it should be considered zero.
  • Another participant argues that the equations for lift cannot be applied in the same way due to the need for the center of mass and center of lift to remain close, suggesting the use of canards for stability.
  • A third participant introduces the concept of a built-in tail (reflex) in delta wings, which serves a similar purpose to a horizontal stabilizer by providing negative lift to counteract pitch moments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on how to handle the absence of a horizontal tail in delta wings and the implications for lift calculations and stability. No consensus is reached on the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the application of lift equations to delta wings, particularly concerning the role of the horizontal tail surface area and the stability mechanisms involved.

kevcrl
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Dear Forum,
I'd like to talk about the formulas about aerodynamic calculations.
Let's focus on the lift force.
As you may know, the lift force is computed as
1718201964441.png

The CL coefficient can be decomposed with a Taylor serie which is
1718202038632.png

Now, each coefficient can be rewritten in detail as:

1718202094239.png

As we can see, there is a ratio of of the horizontal surface tail to the wing surface Sh/S
However, how has this parameter to be used in case of a delta wing aircraft with no horizontal tail
Shall we do consider the Sh surface as zero ?
Thanks
 
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Welcome, @kevcrl !

Delta wings, like any other tailless airplane that needs longitudinal stability, have a built-in tail, which is called reflex.

That works exactly like the horizontal stabilizer of conventional airplanes, providing negative lift to compensate for the natural pitch (nose down) moment that the pressure gradient induces in any airfoil.

Please, see:
https://mh-aerotools.de/airfoils/flywing1.htm

:cool:
 
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Very good website thank you very much :)
 
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