Panel Method and Vortex Lattice Method — Lesson 5

This lesson covers the completion of the discussion on the panel method and the introduction of the vortex lattice method. The panel method is used to solve flow past airfoils, and its limitations are addressed by using higher order panel methods. The vortex lattice method is introduced as a technique to solve potential flow past three-dimensional wings. The lesson explains how to create panels on the wing and how to apply the vortex lattice method to solve for the unknown horseshoe vortex strength. The lesson also discusses the lifting line theory and its application to slender wings.

Video Highlights

01:55 - Discussion on the limitations of the panel method and the need for higher order panel methods.
07:11 - Introduction to the vortex lattice method for solving problems related to low aspect ratio wings.
16:19 - Detailed explanation of the vortex lattice method, including the creation of panels and the use of horseshoe vertices.
25:13 - Conclusion of the lecture and a brief overview of the topics covered.

Key Takeaways

- The panel method is used to solve flow past airfoils, with the boundary surface discretized into panels.
- Limitations of the panel method, such as sensitivity to the number of panels and size distribution, can be addressed by using higher order panel methods.
- The vortex lattice method is introduced as a technique to solve potential flow past three-dimensional wings.
- The lifting line theory is discussed, which works well for slender wings.
- The vortex lattice method involves creating panels on the wing and solving for the unknown horseshoe vortex strength.