Aircraft Aerodynamic Analysis on a Personal Computer (Using the RDS Aircraft Design Software)

This paper discusses the creation of the aerodynamic analysis module of a PC-based aircraft design program called “RDS”, using the time-honored aerodynamic methods found in classical textbooks and the USAF DATCOM. Using this program, reasonably realistic aerodynamic results can be calculated in less than an hour given the geometric inputs which define an aircraft, such as component wetted areas, wing geometry, and cross-section areas. Aerodynamics analysis in RDS includes parasite drag (subsonic and supersonic), drag due to lift, lift curve slope, and maximum lift. Comparisons to T-38 data show good results.