Aerodynamics Analysis on Wings with Winglets and Vortex Generators

This project was based on the principle of designing, simulating and developing an inexpensive, aerodynamically efficient and regular class electric powered RC aircraft. This prototype was designed to have the maximum strength to weight ratio with minimum drag coefficient (and highest lift coefficient). Moreover, all constraints provided by SAE International competition were followed. The investigation was conducted for the complete airplane and for wing optimization. The model was numerically investigated with ANSYS Fluent 16.1 through the SST K-Omega turbulence model at Reynolds number of 360,000. Once the results were obtained, model and result verification were done by wind tunnel test to validate the data. It was concluded that the airplane with 45° winglet has the highest lift force with minimal drag and 45° winglet was further modified with rectangular and triangular vortex generators in order to further enhance its aerodynamic efficiency for a range of Angle of Attacks (AOA).