Manufacturing Process of Blended Delta-Shaped Wing Model

Abstract

Aerodynamicists have long acknowledged the blended wing body (BWB) aircraft design could produce great aerodynamic advantages due to the integration of the delta wing structure with the thick center body. Therefore the wind tunnel test campaign is crucial to gain information of the flow field that governs the delta-shaped wing which has frequently baffled the aerodynamicists. In such, the wind tunnel test required acceptable quality of delta-shaped wing model for results validity. Consequently, the manufacturing process as well as the selection of the appropriate machinery tools, must be wisely designed and performed. The modular 3D concept in associating with CAD/CAM technology was utilised in the process. Finally, the actual flow cycle of manufactures blended BWB aircraft model was sucessfully established. The objective of this paper is to highlight those complexity manufacturing process and techniques involved in order to produce a good blended delta-shaped wind tunnel model.