Airfoil selection, optimization and analysis for a solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicles

Mattar, Avinash Kini; Vaidya, Chetan; Saraf, Anirudh Mukund

doi:10.1109/aero.2016.7500912

Cited by 4 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Achieving optimal e ciency and endurance is crucial for such UAVs, especially when powered by renewable energy sources like solar power. Solar-powered UAVs offer long-endurance ights and a lower carbon footprint [1,2,3]. Solar UAVs are commonly categorized into two types: high-altitude long-endurance and low-altitude longendurance.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Aerodynamic Performance Analysis of an Optimized Aerofoil for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

OLADEJO,

ALABI,

DAMBATTA

2023

Preprint

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This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of the KAYABU aerofoil, optimised for low-altitude subsonic solar-powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). It benchmarks this aerofoil against the W.E 3.55–9.3 reference, known for subsonic solar UAVs. Performance metrics like lift-to-drag ratio, power factor, maximum lift, and stall angle are assessed. At a chosen Reynolds number of 165,000 which is relevant to the operating conditions of the UAV, Computational simulations using Xfoil and XFLR5 and wind tunnel experiments were used to validate the analysis. Results highlight KAYABU's superiority with a 1.2% boost in lift-to-drag ratio, a 16.5% rise in power factor for enhanced range and endurance, and a 40% improvement in stall angle for better stability. KAYABU also maintains lift post-stall, improving stability, and achieves an 11.6% lift increase. Experimental validation closely aligns with simulations, with an 8.7% power factor and 2.6% lift-to-drag ratio deviation. KAYABU's superior performance in subsonic UAVs enhances endurance, manoeuvrability, and mission success. This study advances knowledge and informs future solar UAV development.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%