Variable Supersonic Engine Inlet

摘要

Systems and methods for generating an oblique shock in a supersonic inlet are disclosed. The system can comprise an inlet with a slot disposed at an oblique angle to the main incoming air stream. High-pressure air can be provided through the slot into the main air stream. The high-pressure air can be introduced at a high enough pressure ratio—i.e., the ratio of pressure of the air stream from the slot to the pressure for the main flow—such that an aerodynamic ramp is created in the main air flow. The aerodynamic ramp, in turn, can cause one or more oblique shock waves to eventually slow the main air stream velocity to a subsonic speed prior to the face of the engine. Systems and methods for controlling the slot pressure ratio to create these shocks are also disclosed.

主权项

1. A variable supersonic inlet for an air-breathing engine comprising:
a duct, with a first end proximate a free stream air flow and a second end proximate a face of the air breathing engine, the duct defining one or more slots disposed between the first end and the second end; and a pressurized air source for expulsion through the one or more slots into the free stream air flow; wherein the pressurized air creates one or more oblique shock waves in the duct to slow the free stream air flow from a supersonic speed to a subsonic speed prior to the face of the air breathing engine.