Effect of Wingtip Side Edge Shape on Vortex Formation and Aerodynamics Using High-Fidelity Numerical Simulations

One of the most significant factors affecting wing performance is the behavior of wingtip vortices, which contribute to induced drag and can profoundly impact overall aerodynamic efficiency. The geometry of the wingtip, particularly the shape of the side edge, has been identified as a key determinant of vortex formation and strength. This study quantifies the differences in vortex characteristics between squared and rounded wingtips at nominal and high angles of attack (AoA) using NASA’s OVERFLOW solver. A NACA 0012 semispan wing model is simulated at a chord-based Reynolds number of 4.6 million, with cases including a mesh convergence study and validation against experimental data. The rounded and squared tip geometries are compared in terms of surface pressure, vortex structure, and time-averaged aerodynamic forces. Additionally, Spectral Proper Orthogonal Decomposition is used to investigate unsteady flow behavior and coherent vortex dynamics across various AoAs. Results show that the rounded tip generates a coherent primary vortex on the upper surface, while the squared tip forms multiple interacting vortices that induce more complex wake behavior. At high AoA, both configurations exhibit broadband unsteadiness and separation; however, distinct differences remain. The rounded tip retains pressure fluctuations on the upper surface linked to near-surface vortex activity, while the squared tip shows more pronounced side-edge structures and earlier vortex detachment. These findings provide dynamic insight into how wingtip geometry influences both steady and unsteady aerodynamic performance across a wide range of operating conditions.