Aerodynamic Analysis and Wind Tunnel Testing of the Quadfoil UAV
College
College of Engineering & Technology (Batten)
Department
MAE
Graduate Level
Master’s
Graduate Program/Concentration
Aerospace Engineering
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
This study presents the aerodynamic evaluation of the Quadfoil UAV, a novel quadrotor configuration featuring a central lifting body in the form of an airfoil to enhance forward-flight efficiency. Flight tests conducted by Virginia Tech demonstrated a 25% increase in endurance and a 31.6% improvement in range compared to conventional quadcopters, validating the aerodynamic benefits of this design. To further investigate its performance, a dynamically adjustable angle of attack (AoA) model support system was developed for wind tunnel testing, enabling precise replication of in-flight conditions. The support system, controlled via LabVIEW, dynamically adjusts AoA based on real-time tilt sensor feedback, facilitating aerodynamic analysis across various speeds. Wind tunnel experiments included the identification of trim conditions, where lift equals weight, and where total drag and pitching moments are minimized, as well as pitch sweeps without propellers, flow visualization, and power consumption measurements. The results not only validate the Quadfoil’s enhanced aerodynamic efficiency but also provide critical data on AoA, motor RPS, and power requirements, essential for refining flight control laws. These findings further establish the Quadfoil as a suitable solution for energy-efficient, long-range missions.
Keywords
Experimental Aerodynamics, Quadcopter, Drone, Wind Tunnel, Flow Visualization
Aerodynamic Analysis and Wind Tunnel Testing of the Quadfoil UAV
This study presents the aerodynamic evaluation of the Quadfoil UAV, a novel quadrotor configuration featuring a central lifting body in the form of an airfoil to enhance forward-flight efficiency. Flight tests conducted by Virginia Tech demonstrated a 25% increase in endurance and a 31.6% improvement in range compared to conventional quadcopters, validating the aerodynamic benefits of this design. To further investigate its performance, a dynamically adjustable angle of attack (AoA) model support system was developed for wind tunnel testing, enabling precise replication of in-flight conditions. The support system, controlled via LabVIEW, dynamically adjusts AoA based on real-time tilt sensor feedback, facilitating aerodynamic analysis across various speeds. Wind tunnel experiments included the identification of trim conditions, where lift equals weight, and where total drag and pitching moments are minimized, as well as pitch sweeps without propellers, flow visualization, and power consumption measurements. The results not only validate the Quadfoil’s enhanced aerodynamic efficiency but also provide critical data on AoA, motor RPS, and power requirements, essential for refining flight control laws. These findings further establish the Quadfoil as a suitable solution for energy-efficient, long-range missions.