Aerodynamic investigation on tiltable endplate for WIG craft

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the aerodynamics of wing in ground effect with tiltable endplates for a new type wing‐in‐ground effect (WIG) craft.Design/methodology/approachThe concept of tiltable endplates was implemented into the design of a WIG craft. Numerical investigation on aerodynamics of the tiltable endplate was carried out. The endplate effect on aerodynamics was deeply investigated with a rectangular wing at given angle of attack and flight height. The size of endplate relative to whole wing was then studied based on given endplate deflection angle and flight height. Finally, aerodynamics and flow of tiltable endplate in various flight heights and endplate deflection angles were analyzed. Aerodynamics, pressure and wingtip vortex were recorded in the study.FindingsEndplate influences development of wingtip vortex and improves aerodynamics. Tiltable endplate can enable WIG craft to yield improved aerodynamic performance and worthwhile economy improvements on long‐distance flights in and out of ground effect (OGE).Research limitations/implicationsThe results are entirely based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The gap between “numerical world” and “real world” depends on development and appropriate application of CFD. The current work shows further understanding of ground effect and aerodynamics of wing in ground effect.Practical implicationsThe aerodynamics and aerodynamic optimization of wing in ground effect are of the great importance for WIG craft. The work improves the design and research on aerodynamics of WIG craft.Originality/valueThe concept of tiltable endplate for a new type wing in ground effect allows WIG craft to achieve good aerodynamic performance not only in ground effect but also in OGE. This was studied and proved in the current work.