Secret Aerodynamics of B2 Stealth

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    Aerodynamics
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a new aerodynamic concept purportedly inspired by the B2 Stealth Bomber's design, focusing on drag reduction. Participants explore the feasibility and implications of the proposed design, including its structural integrity and aerodynamic characteristics, within the context of both theoretical and practical aerodynamics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the new aerodynamic concept has similarities to the B2 Stealth Bomber's elevation design and invites feedback on its novelty.
  • Another participant critiques the velocity vector plots, indicating insufficient grid resolution for the aerodynamic runs and emphasizes the structural necessity of blunt tips for high-speed wings.
  • A different participant expresses skepticism about the concept, implying that it may not be taken seriously by professionals in the field.
  • Some participants note that while sharp leading edges are used in some supersonic wings, they can pose risks by piercing shock layers, which could lead to high temperature gradients and structural issues.
  • Concerns are raised about the potential for singularities in finite element analysis (FEA) when using sharp tips in the proposed design.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of skepticism and encouragement regarding the new aerodynamic concept. There is no consensus on its validity or feasibility, with some participants raising significant concerns about structural and aerodynamic implications.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations related to the analysis presented, including insufficient grid resolution in simulations and the potential for structural challenges associated with sharp edges in high-speed aerodynamics.

sr241
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My friend had invented a new aerodynamic concept to reduce drag. My friends and colleagues say that his concept has striking similarity to B2 Stealth Bomber (elevation) design. I think his concept is novel and we contacted Northrop Grumman but there wasn’t any feedback. So I am inviting your esteemed opinion in this regard. For details on his concept follow the link http://sites.google.com/site/highlyaerodynamicdesign/

:smile:
 
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First, by looking at your velocity vector plots, you have no where near enough grid for those runs. Aside from that, the reason that we run blunt tips is for structural reasons. You simply can't make, let alone run wings of that shape at high speeds.

Aside from that though, good work and it never hurts to keep thinking of new ideas.
 
I'm sure the guys at Grumman got a good laugh out of this.
 
minger said:
First, by looking at your velocity vector plots, you have no where near enough grid for those runs. Aside from that, the reason that we run blunt tips is for structural reasons. You simply can't make, let alone run wings of that shape at high speeds.

Aside from that though, good work and it never hurts to keep thinking of new ideas.

Some supersonic wings have sharp leading edges. and most of the airfoils have sharp trailing edge. Actually I was planning a tilt-able leading edge that is always parallel to aircraft direction even during climb.
 
Words cannot express how disappointing your website and analysis is.
 
Last edited:
sr241 said:
Some supersonic wings have sharp leading edges. and most of the airfoils have sharp trailing edge. Actually I was planning a tilt-able leading edge that is always parallel to aircraft direction even during climb.

From the very limited amount I have learned about supersonic aerodynamics, a sharp tip (or edge) can be a bad idea because it pierces the shock layer, exposing the aircraft to high temperature gradients. Highly supersonic aircraft (such as a spacecraft re-entering the atmosphere) have to utilize a blunt body that uses the shock layer for insulation, because anything piercing the shock layer would melt off.

From an FEA standpoint, a sharp tip like that will cause a singularity in your code which needs to be accounted for.