Tail:
We have two current designs for the tail structure. One of them uses diagonal beams on the underside, while the other uses horizontal beams instead. To conclusively decide between the two, we utilized simulations with identical constraints and loads.
Each tail was set up so only the tail is being tested. This way we can only compare the tails, not any other geometries. This also massively simplifies the meshing process as there is much less to mesh. The tails were subjected to identical load cases: in load case one, 80 pounds of force were applied downwards at the end of the tail; in load case two and three, 60 pounds of force were applied to the left and right.
Results:
The results for the downward load cases were spectacular. Both of the tails performed very well, but this also meant that this could not be used to decide which tail was suitable for our needs.
More useful data was received from the sideways forces simulations (Shown below). The diagonal tail performed much better with a minimum safety factor of 7, while the horizontal tail had a minimum safety factor of 3.204. While this may be seen as immediately conclusive, the weight must be accounted for.