Numerical Winglet Optimization

A method is presented to optimize the orientation of a winglet on a wing and include the effects of profile drag in addition to induced drag. The method use s the output from four potential -flow solutions in the Trefftz plane well behind the lifting surfaces. The four solutions are a baseline, an angle -of -attack increment, an increment in the root incidence of the winglet, and an increment in the tip incidenc e of the winglet. Results for the case studied show small differences in the root and tip incidences between an induced -drag -only solution and one with profile drag included. Nomenclature