Rib Optimization

For HPVDT's human powered plane project, I helped optimize the ribs of the main wing. 

• I manufactured the ribs by using a CNC hot wire and a band saw. This process gave insights into how to more consistently manufacture the ribs.

• I used a whipple tree to test the strength and mode of failure of the ribs. From this it was found that the ribs failed via buckling on the top surface just behind the spar. Therefore, future designs thickened this area

• From the experimental results, I had a hypothesis that many parts of the ribs, especially the area in front of the spar, was overbuilt. Therefore, I put the rib into nTopology's topological optimization to see areas that could be bored out. It was determined that weight savings would be small and would be significantly outweighed by the additional time and inconsistency.