Trailing vortex attenuation devices.

Abstract

Trailing vortices generated by large aircraft pose a serious hazard to other planes. Numerous studies have been carried out to destroy them either before and/or after their formation. The present investigation is a survey and critical assessment of all the known active/passive devices and wingtip modifications proposed to achieve vortex attenuation. It is concluded that some devices, such as the wing tip sails, have promise in affecting the vortex roll-up in the vicinity of the aircraft. However, more data and analysis on this and other devices are needed before they can be incorporated into existing aircraft or future designs.