Date of Award

Spring 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Program/Concentration

Aerospace Engineering

Committee Director

Drew Landman

Committee Member

Ashish Tamhane

Committee Member

Thomas Alberts

Committee Member

Anthony Dean

Abstract

This study presents the test development and 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 32% 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 model support system was developed for wind tunnel testing, enabling precise replication of in-flight conditions. The support system, controlled via LabVIEW, adjusts angle of attack based on real-time tilt sensor feedback, facilitating force and moment testing across various speeds. Wind tunnel experiments included the identification of trim conditions 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 performance data, 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.

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In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

DOI

10.25777/rmg8-3k75

ISBN

9798280748026

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