Variable geometry inlet guide vane

摘要

An inlet guide vane (30) provides improved, smooth airflow and avoids separation of flow even at high incidence angles. The inlet guide vane (30) includes a strut (32) having opposite side surfaces (46,48) that are continuously curved to provide a controlled velocity distribution at the trailing edge (44) of the strut (32). The inlet guide vane (30) further includes a flap (34) having a leading edge (52) aligned behind the trailing edge (44) of the strut (32). Generally, the strut (32) and the flap (34) are designed together so that low momentum air in the gap (59) between the strut (32) and the flap (34) will be energized and entrained in the boundary layer of the flap (34). The airflow from the gap (59) will remain attached to the flap (34) to improve the flow from the flap (34).