Enhancing subsonic performance of delta wing at low angles of attack

Delta wings generally have poor lift generation capability compared to conventional wing cross sections at the same angle of attack. An experimental study was conducted to explore the potential of a new approach to improve the lift generation of delta wings at subsonic speeds and low angles of attack. The solution features surfaces which deflect from the basic delta to form an X-configuration, and was inspired by the promises of high lift generation using vortex trapping on high aspect-ratio wings. Both load balance readings and detailed static pressure measurements were employed to enable a discussion of the effects of such non-planarity. Relative to the basic delta wing, the X-configuration displays an increase in lift at low angles of attack with corresponding increase in drag. An overall improvement in performance is displayed when compared to leading edge vortex flaps (LEVFs).