The WindLab
The WindLab is a custom-designed wind tunnel aimed at enhancing STEM education by allowing students to test and understand aerodynamics through hands-on experimentation.
The Features of A WindLab
Pitot Tube
Industrial Ventilation Fan
Visual Laser Array
The pitot tube in the electronics systems measures airflow speed by capturing static and dynamic pressures. This data helps students understand velocity changes and fluid dynamics principles, making aerodynamics more tangible and clear.
Visual Laser Array
Industrial Ventilation Fan
Visual Laser Array
The laser array in the WindLab captures precise airflow visualization around test objects. This system helps demonstrate flow patterns, turbulence, and aerodynamic effects, enhancing comprehension of complex fluid dynamics in a vivid way.
Industrial Ventilation Fan
Industrial Ventilation Fan
Industrial Ventilation Fan
An industrial ventilation fan powers airflow within the WindLab, reaching variable speeds of up to 8 m/s. This capability ensures consistent, high-velocity streams for reliable testing, enabling precise aerodynamic measurements and enhancing experimental accuracy.
10.1" Digital Touchscreen
10.1" Digital Touchscreen
Industrial Ventilation Fan
A 10.1" touchscreen interface offers intuitive control and real-time data display. This interactive feature allows users to seamlessly adjust testing parameters and visualize aerodynamic results, making experimentation more engaging and accessible.
Smoke Stack Vanes
10.1" Digital Touchscreen
5 Axis Force Balance
Integrated vanes within the smoke stacks guide airflow for clearer visualization of aerodynamic patterns. This setup allows smoke to flow smoothly around test objects, revealing flow dynamics and improving the accuracy of airflow observations.
5 Axis Force Balance
10.1" Digital Touchscreen
5 Axis Force Balance
A 5-axis force balance in the WindLab measures forces and moments in five directions, including lift, drag, and yawing moments. It offers precise data on object behavior during airflow tests, helping students deepen their understanding of aerodynamics.
Improving Access to Aerodynamics in industry and education
Universities
Universities
Universities
Professor Michael Blumenstein, Pro Vice-Chancellor at UTS, is an expert in pattern recognition and AI with interests in marine animal detection and document image analysis. He has over 300 publications and led projects like SharkSpotter for shark detection at beaches, securing over AUD$6.5 million in research funding.
Teachers
Universities
Universities
Jessica Allen, a TAS (Technology and Applied Studies) teacher at Caringbah High School with years of experience in Design and Technology, provided invaluable input to the project as a member of the target market. Her advice and insights greatly contributed to its development and relevance.
Students
Universities
Students
Callum Smith, a Year 12 student at Caringbah High School in 2024, has passionately supported the WindLab wind tunnel, emphasizing its potential to enhance aeronautical applications in education. His response highlights its impact on shaping future STEM education and industry practices.