Convoluted plate to reduce base drag
US4776535A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 5, 1987 |
| Grant date | Oct 11, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2007 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64C23/00
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A body adapted to move downstream through a fluid has a downstream extending smooth surface terminating at a blunt base. Extending transversely across the smooth surface and disposed upstream of the blunt base is a thin, downstream extending plate closely spaced from the smooth surface. At least the downstream end portion of the plate is convoluted such that its downstream end is wave shaped. The convolutions are designed to generate pairs of counterrotating vortices which delay boundary layer separation from the smooth surface and cause fluid to flow into the space immediately behind the blunt base, reducing base drag on the body. The device generates very little drag of its own.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.