Cosmos in the Stacks: Technology, Aeronautical Engineering

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Wind Tunnel

Technology TL567.W5

Wind Tunnels & Wind Tunnel Testing

Library Hall of Simulation, Library Second Floor

In Spring 2026, the Cal Poly Humboldt Library collaborated with a team of Engineering 205 students to create an interactive wind tunnel display that introduces visitors to the fundamentals of aerodynamics and aircraft control. Featuring a model airplane inside a custom-built wind tunnel, the exhibit demonstrates how moving air interacts with an aircraft and how changes to its control surfaces affect flight.

The wind tunnel itself is designed to channel and concentrate airflow, creating a controlled stream of higher-velocity air around the model. This allows visitors to explore fundamental aeronautical concepts such as lift, drag, airflow, velocity, and pressure. The accompanying educational information also connects these observations to basic physics and mathematical principles, helping demonstrate how equations and engineering calculations translate into real-world aircraft performance.

By combining aeronautics, physics, mathematics, engineering, and hands-on experimentation, the display transforms concepts that can be difficult to visualize into an engaging learning experience. The project showcases the creativity and technical skills of Cal Poly Humboldt Engineering students while giving Library visitors an accessible way to explore the science and engineering that make flight possible.

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TurboFan

Technology TL709.3.T82

TurboFan: Airplane Propulsion & Aircraft Engines

Library Hall of Simulation, Library Second Floor

In Spring 2026, the Cal Poly Humboldt Library collaborated with a team of Engineering 205 students to create an interactive display exploring the inner workings of an aircraft turbofan engine. The exhibit features an exploded-view model that separates the engine into its major components, giving visitors a unique opportunity to see parts and systems that are normally hidden inside an assembled aircraft engine.

The components were 3D printed and assembled into a detailed model housed inside a clear protective case, allowing visitors to examine the engine from multiple angles. An accompanying information panel explains the major components and their functions, while interactive buttons activate LED lights to highlight different sections of the engine. These visual cues help visitors follow how air moves through the system and better understand the roles of the fan, compressor, combustion section, turbine, and exhaust in producing thrust.

By combining aerospace engineering concepts, 3D printing, electronics, and interactive design, the exhibit makes the complex operation of a turbofan engine more approachable and engaging. Visitors can explore the engineering principles behind modern aircraft propulsion while gaining a better understanding of how individual components work together as one system.

The project showcases the creativity and technical skills of Cal Poly Humboldt Engineering students while transforming a complex piece of aviation technology into an accessible educational experience for Library visitors of all backgrounds.