optimising Aerodynamics
Analysing the aerodynamics of aircraft has historically been done with full scale aircraft. Today a large proportion of the aerodynamics is tested during the design phase using scale models in wind tunnels. Modern research is mainly focused on testing the aeroelasticity of aircraft structures under various conditions. As mentioned these tests are primarily performed in wind tunnels on aircraft scale models. The results of these types of tests show that correct design of the fuselage and wing structures reduces air drag. Together with the choice of material, this improves the stability and efficiency of the aircraft, resulting in increased flight capacity and reduced fuel consumption.
Examples of studies
- Optimisation of aircraft wings to decrease vibrations.
- Development of methods and tests for the structural design of the aircraft
- Design of numerical tools to predict aeroelastic behavior.
- Development of methods to design a structure tailored to its aeroelastic properties.
- Development of more efficient control and maneuvering mechanisms that take advantage of the elastic structure of the material.