A common framework for the design optimization of fixed-wing, multicopter and VTOL UAV configurations
Résumé
In recent years, unmanned aerial vehicles applications have grown in various fields. New design configurations have emerged to address these needs. This paper focuses on the multidisciplinary design optimization of three popular concepts of drones under a common framework: multicopters, fixed-wings, and the more recent fixed-wing VTOLs. Low-fidelity but computationally efficient models for drone sizing are proposed, some of them being shared by the different concepts. The models are integrated with a design optimization approach, and an efficient sizing methodology allows for reducing the problem complexity. This approach is instrumental because of the large number of design variables and constraints involved in the multidisciplinary design process. Examples of sizing results are provided to validate the methodology for fixed wing UAVs. In addition, a study case demonstrates the benefit of a common framework for comparing the performances of different drone concepts. A key finding is that the VTOL propulsion of the fixed-wing VTOLs must be carefully optimized to avoid an undesirable mass penalty.
Domaines
Sciences de l'ingénieur [physics]
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ICAS2022_UAV_Design_Optimization_final_revised.pdf (856.1 Ko)
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