Stability of symmetric and asymmetric vortex pairs over slender conical wings and bodies

Abstract

Theoretical analyses are presented for the stability of symmetric and asymmetric vortex pairs over slender conical wings and bodies under small perturbations in an inviscid incompressible flow at high angles of attack and sideslip. The theory is based on a general stability condition for vortices in two-dimensional flows. The three-dimensional problem of a pair of vortices over slender conical wings and bodies is reduced to a problem in twodimensions by using the conical flow assumption and classical slender-body theory. The stability of symmetric and asymmetric vortex pairs over flat-plate delta wings, slender circular cones, and elliptic cones of various thickness ratios are examined. Results are compared with available experimental data. © 2003 by the authors. Published by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc.