The application of the exact method of aerofoil design

Abstract

This report considers in detail the design of aerofoils by Lighthill's exact method, in which the velocity over the aerofoil surface is prescribed as a function of the angular co-ordinate on the circle into which the aerofoil may be transformed. The mathematical basis of the method is set out, means for obtaining desired characteristics for the aerofoil are developed, and the procedure to be followed in the actual design is fully discussed. Various special functions are introduced to increase the range and practical utility of the velocity distributions obtainable, and these and other functions are fully tabulated. The calculations for the design of a particular thick suction aerofoil are set out in detail.