Comparison of airplane wings using FEM
This project focuses on comparing airplane wings with and without winglets to test their efficiencies. I worked on this project during the summer of 2020. I learned to set up appropriate domains, choosing proper physics, mesh convergence, as well as post-processing the results using COMSOL Multiphysics.
Abstract:
The strategic design of aircraft wings has evolved over time for maximum fuel efficiency. One such idea involves winglet which has been known to reduce turbulence at the tip of the wings. This study intends to investigate the differences in drag and lift forces generated at airplane wings with and without winglets at cruising speed using FEM. Simulations were performed in the SST turbulence model of CFD and the results are compared to that of the experimental and theoretical models. The simulation showed that the lift increased by 26.0% and the drag decreased by 74.6% for the winglet at cruising speed.
I have prepared a report for the overall simulation which can be found here:
Unable to retrieve the requested document.
Summary:
- COMSOL Multiphysics was used for all simulations
- Airplane wings (with and without winglets) were compared to test their efficiencies.
- Components of forces (viscous and pressure) were calculated and their significance was discussed.