Airfoil Flow Simulation - MATLAB

This aerodynamics project challenged me to simulate the flow over an airfoil in MATLAB using the source panel method. Coding, troubleshooting, and comparisons to experimental data comprised most of the project's content. Analyzing the results of the simulation strengthened my knowledge of fundamental aerodynamics concepts as I experienced the strengths and short comings of the source panel method first hand. The first section of the project consisted of building the simulation code for NACA 4412, while the next section saw me designing my own airfoil and running it through the simulation. Multiple parameters were solved for and graphed, such as the lift coefficient, pressure coefficient, and velocity field. Based on my knowledge of aerodynamics, I was able to determine the ideal use cases for the airfoil I designed. This project immensely developed my ability to apply engineering principles to MATLAB and understand the differences between simplified simulations and practical data.