Vectoring thrust using confined countercurrent shear layers

A fluidic scheme is described which exploits a confined countercurrent shear layer to achieve multiaxis thrust vector response of high speed jets in the absence of moving parts. Continuous control of the thrust vector angle is demonstrated in supersonic exhaust up to Mach 2, and in nozzle geometries including rectangular, diamond and axisymmetric cross sections. Thrust vector angles up to at least 20° can be achieved at slew rates in excess of 180 degrees per second. Secondary mass flow requirements for control are shown to be less than 2% of the primary jet mass. The confined shear layer is susceptible to both attached and unattached flow regimes, the nature of which will be discussed.