top of page

Glider Project

Challenge: Determining which wing shape would result in the furthest flight distance for the glider.

​

Solution: To address this challenge, I tested multiple wing shapes (e.g., flat, curved, tapered) to evaluate their impact on flight performance. I created different prototypes with varying wing designs and tested them under the same conditions. Through trial and error, I identified the optimal wing shape that maximized lift, reduced drag, and provided the best overall stability. This iterative process allowed me to refine the design, ultimately selecting the wing shape that enabled the glider to fly the furthest, surpassing the 20-foot target distance.

Process:

  • Initial Concept Design: Developed the first concept for the glider, focusing on aerodynamics and stability to ensure it would achieve the desired flight distance.

  • 3D Modeling in SolidWorks: Created a detailed 3D model of the glider, refining the structure and wing shapes to optimize flight performance.

  • Prototype Creation & Testing: Built multiple prototypes with varying designs and conducted flight tests to assess which configuration achieved the longest flight distance.

  • Design Selection: After testing, I selected the design that flew the furthest and demonstrated the best performance in terms of stability and lift.

  • Building the Glider: Using tools like the laser cutter, band saw, and sander, I carefully crafted the glider from lightweight materials such as balsa wood and foam, ensuring a precise and balanced construction.

  • Final Test Flights: Conducted test flights with the final glider, making weight modifications to fine-tune the balance and improve flight performance.

  • Competition: Successfully flew the glider at the competition, achieving the goal and demonstrating the effectiveness of the design and modifications.

Prototypes

image.png

Swift Dragon 1

Wing Shape: Tapered Rectangular Wing

Wing Span: 22''

Fuselage Length: 16.5''

Vertical Stabilizer: 

Triangle 2.06''

Horizontal Stabilizer: Triangle 4.125''

image.png

Swift Dragon 2

Wing Shape: Elliptical

Wing Span: 22''

Fuselage Length: 16.5''

Vertical Stabilizer: 

Triangle 2.06''

Horizontal Stabilizer: Triangle 4.125''

image.png

Swift Dragon 3

Wing Shape: Rectangular with rounded edges

(wings are bent upward)

Wing Span: 22''

Fuselage Length: 16.5''

Vertical Stabilizer: 

Trapezoid 2.06''

Horizontal Stabilizer: Trapezoid 4.125''

Test Results and Final Flight Distance

Swift Dragon 1

image.png

Swift Dragon 2

image.png

Swift Dragon 3

image.png
Design Used: Swift Dragon 3
Final Flight Distance: 42 feet
image.png
bottom of page