Question About ERJ Wing

[User546]

http://www.airliners.net/open.file?id=806926&size=L

We parked next to an ERJ at Customs in Mexico earlier this week, and I noticed something I couldn't figure out.

Maybe I have never paid close attention before, but on the leading outboard edges of the wing, there were four yellow fins facing forward.

What is the purpose of these, and are they on all ERJ's?

Thanks in advance.

 

[pacsky72]

They are called Vortilons...helps wing stalling characteristics
http://www.madsci.org/posts/archives/oct2000/971747433.Eg.r.html

 

[Tina Fey's Scar]

I'm sorry, but those are head whackers. The sole purpose is to scar you about the face.

 

[pacsky72]

Actually I do find on my early morning pre-flights, that the Vortilons do a much better job of waking me up than my mocha-java-chino-caf-half-tai-chi-skim-foamy hot beverage.
Those can poke an eye out ya know!

 

[Flyeys]

I'm sorry, but those are head whackers. The sole purpose is to scar you about the face.

Ditto

 

[Alchemy]

From what I underdstand they pretty much allow the airplane to get by without Leading Edge high-lift devices, saving a lot of weight.

Basically, they're low-weight alternatives to slats; at high angles of attack, they direct airflow over the ailerons to ensure effectiveness.

 

[Axel]

Bird splitters

 

[8HRRULE]

Here is your answer.


http://www.cavalrypilot.com/weapons/kpuwp.html

 

[shamrock]

Those can poke an eye out ya know!

Any of you ever see the pictures of the NetJets guy that got a static wick in the eye while doing his walk around?

Not very pretty.

 

[User546]

I'm sorry, but those are head whackers. The sole purpose is to scar you about the face.

Is that what happened to your avatar??

Thanks for all the great information. Never heard of a Vortilon before today!