An extension of the linearized theory of supersonic flow past quasi-cylindrical bodies, with applications to wing-body interference

Abstract

An extension of the linearized theory of supersonic flow past quasi-cylindrical bodies of almost circular cross-section has been found which enables a direct calculation to be made of the overall forces on wings mounted on such bodies, subject to certain restrictions on the plan-form. The method is applied to two examples: (i) the effect of an arbitrary body distortion on static stability at supersonic speeds; and (ii) the effect of wing-body interference on rectangular wings mounted on a cylindrical body. The drag calculations in the second example are compared with the results of the supersonic area rule, which is found to be in error for moderate values of the ratio of wing chord to body radius, though the discrepancy is not serious from a practical point of view.