In flight mechanics and aerodynamics, the “downwash angle” refers to the angle at which the airflow is deflected downward by the wings of an aircraft. This angle is a result of the interaction between the wing’s lift generation and the induced flow that occurs due to the wing’s circulation.
- (1 + τ): This part of the equation likely represents a factor that takes into account the influence of the trailing vortex system of the wing. The trailing vortex system is created by the airflow over the wingtips and can have a significant impact on the overall downwash angle distribution.
- CLw: This is the lift coefficient of the wing, representing the amount of lift generated by the wing.
- π (Pi) and Aw: π (pi) represents the mathematical constant Pi (approximately 3.14159) and “Aw” represents the wing area. This term, π Aw, is used to calculate the reference area that’s often used in aerodynamic equations.