Numerical analysis and optimization of a winglet sweep angle and winglet tip chord for improvement of aircraft flight performance

In this paper, a study of the effect of winglet sweep angle and winglet tip chord of the aircraft wing on the aerodynamics performances and how to improve it are carried out, assuming Cant angle 60°, winglet height = 3.5 m, Toe angle = -5°, and Twist angle = +5°. Different sweep angles tested (-25°, -15°, 0°, +15°, +25°, +35°, and +45°) and winglet tip chord (0.25, 0.375, and 0.5 m). Four Angle of attack is presented (0°, 3°, 6°, and 9°). The aerodynamics properties of the wing were measured in terms of calculated lift to drag ratio to decide which wing has a high value of lift and lower drag. All models of a wing (eighty-four models) are drawn for 3D using the SOLIDWORKS program. Boeing 737-800 wing dimensions were used. All models of a wing were analyzed using ANSYS FLUENT. The results showed that sweep angle and winglet tip chord of the winglet by changing their configuration can improve aerodynamic performance for various attack angles. The maximum value of the lift to drag ratio was obtained with a sweep angle -15°, winglet tip chord 0.375m, and angle of attack 3°.