Design Of A Wind Tunnel Facility For Hands On Use By Beginning Engineering Students

The best way to learn engineering is by doing engineering. To foster appropriate types of experiential learning, we have created a unique project called a Design for Lifetime Learning (DL) project. This paper addresses one element of this overall effort—the design and construction of a wind tunnel facility to support hands-on learning by beginning engineering students. The wind tunnel facility was designed so each student can operate the tunnel with less than ten minutes of training. The wind tunnel, powered by a 37 kW motor, can generate air velocities of 70 m/s in the 45-cm square test-section. A state-of-the-art electronic force balance provides lift, drag, and pitching moment data. The control and instrumentation systems are designed to promote ease of use. Assessment data from students participating in a pre-college summer camp indicated that the wind tunnel was easy to use and that the wind tunnel enhanced the students’ educational experience.