Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s (ERAU) Daytona Beach campus in Florida, USA, stands out as a leading hub for aviation and aerospace research and education. Since commissioning its state-of-the-art low-speed wind tunnel in 2018, the facility has gained recognition as a member of the Subsonic Aerodynamic Testing Association.
In a recent research endeavour at ERAU, a collaborative team of students and faculty embarked on the design of an innovative aircraft wing configuration. The aim was to advance aerodynamic performance through a novel wing arrangement. To systematically analyse the aerodynamic characteristics of this new wing configuration, the team employed Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV), a sophisticated laser-based flow diagnostic technique. This approach enabled them to capture detailed, time-resolved visualisations of the airflow, with particular attention to the complex vortex interactions occurring near the wing-tips—an area critical to overall wing aerodynamic efficiency and aircraft performance.
Seeking to improve both the speed and flexibility of model fabrication, the ERAU researchers opted against conventional metallurgical machining for creating the test wings. Instead, they partnered with engineers from Stratasys to pioneer the use of Stereolithography (SLA) technology in the construction of their models. This method, a form of advanced 3D printing, allowed the team to produce three high-precision, large-dimension (over 2 feet) wing prototypes in under a week, a significant reduction in lead time compared to traditional techniques. The process not only accelerated their experimental schedule but also showcased the potential of SLA for rapid, precise aeronautical prototyping.
Download the One Pager to read the details of how Embry Riddle prepared and fabricated the 3D printed model for wind tunnel testing.
