Nonweiler, T.
Description:
In this paper we shall attempt to review the existing
information, both theoretical and experimental, which relates to
same of the more important aerodynamic problems arising in the
study of the flaw over bodies of revolution. Many of these
problems can only be explained by including an account of the
effects of the air viscosity on the flow, but this can more
easily be accomplished if we first consider the simpler conditions
existing in inviscid, irrotational flow. In common with many
other branches of aerodynamics, potential flaw theory provides a
basic framework of knowledge, helping to suggest likely effects
of viscosity, which we can modify to explain, and predict the
behaviour of a real fluid.
Thus the first part of this paper is taken up with
a study of the various methods which have from time to time been
devised to enable the calculation of the properties of axisymmetric
potential flow. Tie shall first concern ourselves with
more or less exact, rigorous theories, and afterwards 1.1th the
approximate methods. Space does not permit a full discussion
of the exact techniques but it is not considered that any single
approach possesses advantages above all others to warrant
exclusive attentions so a brief review is given of most of
those which have been developed. The theory of potential flat
about inclined bodies of revolution is next discussed, and leads
to an account of the manner in which these results can be used
to derive the surface pressure distribution, and the magnitude
of the theoretical destabilising moment on a body in a simple
translational motion ... [cont.].