Aerodynamics
What does the Aerodynamics Team do?
The aerodynamics subteam is responsible for designing the wing and running aerodynamic analysis for the entirety of the plane. We are in charge of ensuring that the goals for the plane’s performance can be met through iterative CFD analysis of all aerodynamic surfaces. We ensure that the plane can fly in all expected flight conditions and weight configurations as required for each mission of the contest.
As an aerodynamics team member, you will:
- Size the wing and empennage, and select appropriate airfoils for operating Reynolds Numbers
- Strengthen your practical knowledge of fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, and aircraft design
- Utilize both XFLR5 and OpenVSP for CFD and aerodynamic analysis for all lifting surfaces
- Ensure that plane is stable in flight and gusts by defining the location and trim of the stabilizers
