Sidewash Angle Given Yawing Moment Coefficient Using Wingspan Calculator

Sidewash Angle Formula:

\[ \sigma = \frac{C_n \cdot S \cdot b \cdot Q_w}{l_v \cdot S_v \cdot Q_v \cdot C_v} - \beta \]

Yawing Moment Coefficient (Cn):

Reference Area (S):

m²

Wingspan (b):

Wing Dynamic Pressure (Qw):

Vertical Tail Moment Arm (lv):

Vertical Tail Area (Sv):

m²

Vertical Tail Dynamic Pressure (Qv):

Vertical Tail Lift Curve Slope (Cv):

1/rad

Sideslip Angle (β):

rad

Sidewash Angle (σ):

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1. What is Sidewash Angle?

Sidewash Angle is caused by the flow field distortion due to the wings and fuselage. It is analogous to the downwash angle for the horizontal tailplane and affects the aerodynamic performance of the vertical tail.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Sidewash Angle formula:

\[ \sigma = \frac{C_n \cdot S \cdot b \cdot Q_w}{l_v \cdot S_v \cdot Q_v \cdot C_v} - \beta \]

Where:

\( \sigma \) — Sidewash Angle (rad)
\( C_n \) — Yawing Moment Coefficient
\( S \) — Reference Area (m²)
\( b \) — Wingspan (m)
\( Q_w \) — Wing Dynamic Pressure (Pa)
\( l_v \) — Vertical Tail Moment Arm (m)
\( S_v \) — Vertical Tail Area (m²)
\( Q_v \) — Vertical Tail Dynamic Pressure (Pa)
\( C_v \) — Vertical Tail Lift Curve Slope (1/rad)
\( \beta \) — Sideslip Angle (rad)

Explanation: The equation calculates the sidewash angle based on various aerodynamic parameters and the aircraft's geometric characteristics.

3. Importance of Sidewash Angle Calculation

Details: Accurate sidewash angle calculation is crucial for predicting the effectiveness of the vertical tail and ensuring proper directional stability and control of the aircraft.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure all values are positive and valid to avoid calculation errors.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of sidewash angle in aircraft design?
A: Sidewash angle affects the airflow around the vertical tail, influencing its effectiveness and the aircraft's directional stability.

Q2: How does sidewash angle differ from downwash angle?
A: Sidewash angle relates to lateral flow distortion affecting the vertical tail, while downwash angle relates to vertical flow distortion affecting the horizontal tail.

Q3: What factors influence the sidewash angle?
A: Wing geometry, fuselage shape, and aircraft configuration all contribute to the sidewash effect on the vertical tail.

Q4: When is sidewash angle most significant?
A: Sidewash effects are most pronounced during sideslip conditions and at high angles of attack.

Q5: How can sidewash effects be minimized?
A: Proper aircraft design, including careful placement of the vertical tail and fuselage shaping, can help minimize adverse sidewash effects.