Influence of Boomerang Geometry on Flight Trajectory

Exploratory Study (2023–2024)

Overview

This exploratory project investigates the impact of boomerang geometry on its flight trajectory.

The objective was to analyze how variations in:

• Planform (number of blades and curvature)
• Airfoil profile modifications
• Global geometric configuration

influence qualitative flight behavior.

The study was conducted during 2023–2024 as an independent project.

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Configurations Studied

Eight distinct geometries were designed and analyzed:

1. Bipale
2. Classical Tripale
3. Tripale (rear curved)
4. Tripale (forward curved)
5. Tripale (forward curved, enlarged profile)
6. Tripale (rear curved, reduced profile)
7. Quadripale
8. Asymmetric “N” shaped configuration

An overview of the boomerang family is available in the overview/ folder.

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Methodology

The workflow combined aerodynamic estimation, inertia analysis, and physical prototyping:

1. Aerodynamic Estimation (JavaFoil)

Each geometry was defined using coordinate files and analyzed in JavaFoil to evaluate lift and drag trends across varying angles of attack.

2. Inertia Extraction (SolidWorks)

The 2D geometries were imported into SolidWorks and extruded to:

• Compute mass properties
• Extract inertia matrices
• Visualize three-dimensional structure

3. Prototyping and Testing

The geometries were printed and manually fabricated from cardboard to enable qualitative flight testing.

The goal was to compare observed trajectory behavior with geometric and aerodynamic expectations.

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Repository Content

For each configuration, this repository includes:

• 2D geometry image
• JavaFoil coordinate file (.txt)
• SolidWorks 3D model (.SLDPRT)

These elements allow full reproduction and further investigation of the studied geometries.

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Scope and Limitations

This repository provides a reproducible geometric and modeling base.

It does not include:

• A finalized experimental campaign
• Systematic trajectory measurements
• A validated predictive flight model

The project remains open for further theoretical and experimental development.

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Intended Use

This repository is intended for:

• Students exploring flight dynamics
• Aerodynamics enthusiasts
• Academic continuation
• Shape optimization studies
• Experimental extensions

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Tools Used

• JavaFoil (airfoil analysis)
• SolidWorks (CAD modeling and inertia extraction)
• Manual prototyping
• Qualitative flight observation

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Author

Vigneswaran Subhen Engineering Student – Electronics & Embedded Systems Project conducted in 2023–2024