Aircraft design · Aerodynamics
Unlimited Class Air Racer
A team aircraft-design study in which I lead simulation work, including racecourse lap modeling and aerodynamic analysis.
Overview
This team study addresses a clean-sheet piston aircraft for Unlimited Class racing, balancing race performance with ferry, structural, handling, and operating requirements. As simulations lead, I coordinate and communicate lap-model and aerodynamic-simulation work while contributing to the wider design effort. The planned lap model will connect course geometry, drag, propulsion, turning limits, and atmospheric conditions. Implementation and simulation results are not yet complete. A reviewed team update will document the configuration, contributions, and course assumptions against the RFP’s Roswell conditions.
My Contribution
Following our team reorganization, I am the simulations lead for lap simulation, aerodynamic simulations, and other simulation work. I am responsible for understanding the methods, coordinating the work, presenting findings, and communicating them to our professor. All members continue to contribute across the project and can run simulations; my role also includes broader aircraft-design work.
Engineering Approach
The intended model will connect course geometry, aerodynamic drag, propulsion performance, turning limits, and atmospheric conditions with predicted lap time. Comparison with aircraft having public performance data will be needed to establish credibility.
Results & Current Status
The team has progressed and reorganized its responsibilities, with me serving as simulations lead. The racecourse lap model is in preparation; implementation and results have not yet been completed. A reviewed team update will add the configuration, documented analyses, contribution credits, and simulation results.
Next Steps
Supporting Files
Downloads are public copies with identifying file metadata removed. Project status and team credits above describe their scope; source packages include notes on their use.