Geometric Effects on the Aerodynamic Interactions of a Wing-Propeller Combination in Hover Flight

• DOI: 10.2514/6.2024-1725
• Publication Date: 2024-01-30T01:47:01Z
• Authors: Ross Heidersbach; Anthony P. Pisano; Alex Spens; Victoria Murnieks; Dhuree Seth; Matthew McCrink; Jeffrey P. Bons
• Keywords: Aerodynamic force

The aerodynamic interactions between a propeller, wing, and control surface are investigated at zero freestream velocity to simulate flight conditions associated with hovering operations of tail-sitter aircraft. Oil flow visualizations Kiel probe surveys indicated that thrust-producing propeller operating generates wake over wing’s is significantly skewed towards the slipstream’s downwash component. This testing also showed profile given chord location follows bimodal distribution deficit located behind hub. After identifying distinctive slipstream characteristics this unique condition, additional was performed focused on determining influence propeller’s rotational direction, distance from leading edge, radius, pitch resultant lifting force pitching moment. Test results demonstrated directionality did not impact loads. Similarly, moment appeared largely insensitive changes in standoff distances 0.5R 1.5R. loads increased linearly amount thrust generated by propeller. For deflection, similar thrust-normalized forces moments were regardless radius pitch. These proportionally position for small moderate deflections. Relating provides succinct method estimating required model dynamics VTOL aircraft conditions.