Numerical study of the aerodynamic properties of a flying, rotating disc-wing

Flying, rotating disc-wings (FRDW) are classified as axi-symmetric, thin cylindrical structure that utilizes spinning to maintain flight stability. The most commonly-seen example of FRDW is on Frisbee sport. In fact, this unique structure has sparked the interest of researchers over the years to study its aerodynamic properties as well as develop similar flying vehicles. Wind-tunnel experiments were the most conventional methods used in the past to study its aerodynamics. The main objective of this study is to study the aerodynamic properties of FRDW using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). This is an alternative method to be introduced and is especially useful and cost-saving when it comes to preliminary design of a flying machine. This study was begun with choosing the correct simulation domain using two-dimensional validation. Next, simulations were performed in steady and transient models to provide justifications on which model was suitable to be used. After that, simulations were performed on zero degree-of-freedom (DOF) case and gyroscopic precession effect case. Sustained level flight paths of disc-wing were then predicted using the aerodynamic data generated. Finally, this study also discussed on the advantages and disadvantages of applying disc-wing design on Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV). Brief recommendations were also discussed in order to tackle the issues concerning the drawbacks of disc-wings, as well as improve the methodologies of this study.Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace Engineering