3
$\begingroup$

I can't find any information about the airfoil of the Rockwell B-1b. It's listed as a NACA 69-190-2, which doesn't follow the conventional format of the 6-Series airfoils. I'm assuming its a design unique to Rockwell but I thought it would still be listed in the airfoiltools database. I cannot find any information about it. Jane's has a write up in the 86-87 edition but only mentions the leading edge dimensions.

From Jane's:

Wings: Cantilever low-wing fail-safe blended wing body structure, with variable geometry on outer panels. ...

Each of the outer wing panels, which have 15" of leading-edge sweep when fully forward and 67" 30' when fully swept, is a conventional two-spar aluminium alloy torsion box structure, with machined spars, ribs, and one-piece integrally stiffened top and bottom skin panels.

Full span seven-segment leading-edge slats on each outer panel can be drooped 20" for take-off and landing.

Six-segment single-slotted trailing-edge flaps on each outer panel, with maximum downward deflection of 40°.

$\endgroup$
1
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ I've retracted my vote to close, since the "why spoilers & not ailerons for roll control" question was separated out. This question is now appropriately focused, IMHO. $\endgroup$
    – Ralph J
    Feb 2, 2022 at 6:50

1 Answer 1

3
$\begingroup$

It is not listed as NACA ..., it is listed as NA 69-190-2. When the development contract for the B1 was awarded in 1970, North American and Rockwell had already merged. Hence, I am assuming that NA stands for North American and that it is a proprietary airfoil. Since the B1 flies at high subsonic speeds when the wings are extended, I would assume that the airfoil is a supercritical one, which also rules out a NACA 6-series airfoil.

$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.