Interactions of Multi-Rotors with Surfaces
Aerodynamic Characterization and Performance Modelling
H.N.J. Dekker (TU Delft - Wind Energy)
D. Ragni – Promotor (TU Delft - Wind Energy)
W.J. Baars – Copromotor (TU Delft - Aerodynamics)
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Abstract
Recent advancements in electric propulsion technology have paved the way for alternative transportation systems aimed at revolutionizing travel times in congested metropolitan areas. The proposed electric Vertical and Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft configurations exist in great diversity, but can be classified depending on their overall propulsion and wing layout. An example is the tilt-wing eVTOL, which combines the maneuverability of a helicopter with the cruise efficiency of an aircraft and therefore provides a promising vehicle architecture for this market. Nonetheless, future eVTOL vehicles face challenges regarding public acceptance and safe operation in urban environments, and successful implementation therefore relies on performance enhancement strategies.
The high power-to-weight ratio and efficiency of electric motors provide an excellent platform to explore disruptive propulsion system configurations. An observable design trend here is the tight integration of distributed, fixed-pitched rotors with aerodynamic surfaces, aimed at generating beneficial aerodynamic coupling effects to increase the aircraft’s efficiency and reduce acoustic emissions.
An auspicious integrated tilt-wing propulsion system layout is known as Over-The-Wing propulsion, which promises favorable aerodynamic effects by the rotor-induced flow and reduced noise signature during fly-over by shielding. However, during the operation of Over-The-Wing propulsion in eVTOL flight conditions, several multi-rotor-surface interactions are encountered, resulting in unexplored aerodynamic and aeroacoustic effects. As a consequence, design guidelines to maximize aerodynamic performance and minimize noise signature for Over-The-Wing propulsion for eVTOL flight conditions are missing in the public domain. This thesis focuses on enabling Over-The-Wing propulsion for vertical flight through experimentation and low-order modeling of the fundamental aerodynamic interactions between distributed rotors and surfaces.