Effect of the novel embedded control surfaces on direction control characteristic of low-aspect-ratio flying-wing configuration

The middle sweepback embedded control surfaces are designed on the upper and lower surfaces of a flying-wing, and the control characteristics and flow mechanism are analyzed by both experimental and simulated method. The results show that when the upper embedded control surfaces is opened, there is sufficient yawing moment generated mainly by the side force and drag of embedded control surfaces at small angle of attack. With the increasing of the angle of attack, the embedded control surfaces is under the influence of the leading edge vortex and the directional control ability decreases rapidly, even lapses at high angles of attack. Further more, the embedded control surfaces may have adverse effect on the roll moment because of moment coupling effect. On the other side, the lower embedded control surfaces can functionate as direction control device at all attack angles. Using the lower and upper embedded control surfaces rationaly according to the different angle of attack, it not only the directional control requirement can be guaranteed, but also the stealth performance insured.