Pre-Test CFD Analyses for the Tiltwing Test Rig Experiment

In preparation for the Tiltwing Test Rig experiment at NASA Langley's 14- by 22-Foot Subsonic Tunnel, a series of CFD simulations are being run using OVERFLOW to better understand the physics involved. The first study focuses on determining the best actuator disk model to use for the proprotors. Using a model to approximate the proprotors significantly reduces convergence time and computational expense, offering a practical alternative to high-fidelity simulations. The two models being investigated are the Pressure Difference model that uses a uniform pressure jump and the Rotor Disk model which is based on blade-element theory. The Rotor Disk model proved to better approximate the flow physics, so it was used to perform three pre-test CFD studies. The first is a component build-up to better understand the effects of each geometric component on the aerodynamic performance. The second is a study of the aerodynamic effect of varying the proprotor turning direction, while the third study looks at the effects of changing the flap deflection angle.