AIRFOIL DESIGN
Define your operating conditions to find a matching airfoil from the database, design a custom shape, or apply to a wing.
How the Search Algorithm Works
How the Search Algorithm Works
NoteThis is NOT a shape optimization. It is a drag minimization search across a database of pre-analyzed airfoils, enforced by your geometric constraints.
• 1. Hard Constraints
The database is first filtered by your geometric requirements. Airfoils falling outside your Thickness or Camber ranges are immediately discarded. Max Cm acts as a stability filter.
• 2. Aerodynamic Operating Points
For each speed entry, the system calculates the required lift coefficient and Reynolds number based on your wing geometry.
• 3. Performance Interpolation
The remaining airfoils are searched for polars matching your target \(Re\). Drag is linearly interpolated at the exact required \(C_L\). If stall occurs, a heavy penalty is applied.
• 4. Weighted Suitability Calculation
A global cost function sums the drag scores from all operating points. This cost is mapped to a percentage score, where 100% represents minimal drag across the envelope.