FLOW CONTROL ACTUATORS

摘要

A flow control actuator (10) for a body exposed to fluid flow comprises first and second flow surfaces (14, 16) spaced to define an elongate gap (20) therebetween. An elongate control element is disposed in or adjacent the gap and has an externally facing arcuate surface and defines a first slot (24) between the control element and said first flow surface and a second slot between said control element and said second flow surface (26). The control element (22) is moveable to allow the width of said slots to be adjusted generally proportionally. The flow of pressurised flow control fluid passes from a plenum chamber (30) out through one or both slots (24, 26) to be deflected around the arcuate surface under the influence of the Coanda effect. The flow control actuator (10) may be provided in the trailing or leading edge of an aerofoil; alternatively it may be provided between two surfaces spaced to provide said gap but otherwise providing a generally continuous surface.