Aerodynamic Modeling Process Using Reverse Engineering and Computational Fluid Dynamics

In the following paper a complex aerodynamic modeling process using reverse engineering and computational fluid dynamics was shown. The research team from Military University of Technology digitized the external geometry of Tu-154M aircraft to create a virtual model that has been used for aerodynamic tests and numerical calculations. Capture 3D process utilized two complementary non-contact data acquisition devices ATOS II and TRITOP digital photogrammetry. The process of reproducing the external geometry of an airplane along with the develop of their numerical models is an extremely complex task in the field of reverse engineering. To perform aerodynamic tests in wind tunnel, scaled models of aircraft using acquired geometric data, fast prototyping methods, and 3D printing have been prepared. Furthermore in order to perform numerical calculations using finite volume method aircraft numerical models have been developed. Research was done for various airplane configurations, e.g. cruise, landing with slats and flaps extended, landing with a left wing damage. Results have been shown in the graphs form of aerodynamic force and moment components as functions of angle of attack. The qualitative results of a flow around the aircraft body have been presented. Moreover during research an influence of particular aircraft structural parts on aerodynamic characteristics has been analyzed. Obtained results are using in the process of analysis the plane crash of Polish government Tu-154M aircraft in Smolensk. Conducted research is an example of professional and innovative approach to the subject matter.