Vortex Generators

In the context of aerospace engineering, vortex generators are small aerodynamic devices that are attached to the upper surface of an aircraft's wing. They are designed to alter the airflow over the wing's surface to enhance lift, delay stall, and improve control at low speeds. Vortex generators work by creating vortices, which are spinning columns of air. These vortices mix the slower boundary layer of air near the wing's surface with the faster-moving air above it. This mixing process energizes the boundary layer, making it less likely to separate from the wing's surface, which can cause a stall. Vortex generators are typically used on aircraft that operate at high angles of attack, such as fighter jets and STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) aircraft. They can be seen as small fins or blades and are usually made of metal or plastic. The design and placement of vortex generators can significantly impact an aircraft's performance and are therefore critical aspects of aerospace engineering.