Date of Award:
12-2022
Document Type:
Thesis
Degree Name:
Master of Science (MS)
Department:
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Department name when degree awarded
Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Committee Chair(s)
Douglas F. Hunsaker
Committee
Douglas F. Hunsaker
Committee
Stephen A. Whitmore
Committee
Tianye He
Abstract
The elliptic lift distribution produces the minimum induced drag for a given wingspan and desired lift outside of ground effect. This distribution can be generated on any wing by using geometric and/or aerodynamic twist. However, in ground effect, the elliptic lift distribution is not necessarily that which minimizes induced drag. The present work uses a modern numerical lifting-line algorithm to evaluate how the optimum lift distribution varies as a function of height above ground. The algorithm is also used to obtain the twist distributions that should be applied to wings of varying aspect ratios and taper ratios to produce the optimum lift distribution in ground effect. The results of this work can be used to reduce takeoff distances on morphing wings, or wings that can actively change twist or camber during flight.
Checksum
b99851689546baee6d0ba206d923e9ff
Recommended Citation
Church, Kyler, "Lifting-Line Predictions for Life and Twist Distributions to Minimize Induced Drag in Ground Effect" (2022). All Graduate Theses and Dissertations, Spring 1920 to Summer 2023. 8661.
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/etd/8661
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