Luftprofilform

Luftprofilform refers to the shape of an airfoil, which is the cross-sectional shape of an object designed to produce lift when it moves through the air. This shape is fundamental to the function of aircraft wings, helicopter rotors, propeller blades, and wind turbine blades. The specific geometry of an airfoil, often described by its chord length, thickness, camber, and leading and trailing edge shapes, dictates its aerodynamic performance.

The pressure distribution around an airfoil is what generates lift. As air flows over the curved upper surface, it travels a longer distance than the air flowing under the flatter lower surface. According to Bernoulli's principle, this difference in speed leads to lower pressure on the upper surface compared to the lower surface. The resulting pressure difference creates an upward force, which is lift.

Different luftprofilform designs are optimized for various flight conditions and purposes. For example, airfoils used on high-speed aircraft are often thinner and have a sharper leading edge to reduce drag at transonic and supersonic speeds. Conversely, airfoils for low-speed aircraft or wind turbines may have greater thickness and camber to maximize lift at lower speeds and high angles of attack. The study and design of these shapes are a core aspect of aerodynamics.