Aircraft wing design at low speeds using Taguchi method

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact level of parameters affecting wing design at low speeds using Taguchi method. Design/methodology/approach Using brain storming approach airfoil shape, wing angle of attack and Reynolds number are determined as important wing design parameters. Most important parameters over these parameters are determined using Taguchi method. The lift-to-drag ratio (CL/CD ratio) is chosen as the performance criterion and L8 orthogonal index is chosen as experimental study scheme for this study. Findings Experimental results are examined using Taguchi method. After making experiments and also analyses, Reynolds number is found as the most important and identifier parameter for aircraft wing design. Practical implications Taguchi method makes the experimental design for experimental studies. This method reduces the number of experiments substantially using orthogonal indices while keeping effects of uncontrolled parameters to a minimum. Reduction in number of experiments helps save time and also cost. Originality/value In this study, with less number of experiments, the most important parameter for aircraft wing design is determined. Moreover, with less number of experiments, not only is time saved but the design stage is also made faster.