Computational investigations for the application of Micro Vortex Generators (MVGs) for 4R-UAV Wing

Abstract

The concept of Micro Vortex Generators (MVGs) application on UAVs is relatively new. The main objective of this study is to investigate the application of (MVGs) to the modern concept of eco-friendly Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (4R-UAV). 4R-UAV is a project funded by the Latvian Council of Science with the goal to create an innovative, aerodynamically improved, and environmentally friendly UAV. Several types of MVGs with different design features and arrangements were analyzed using CFD. A comparative analysis of the results based on different types of MVGs (delta, rectangular, and trapezoidal) was carried out for the baseline wing design of the future 4R-UAV. The results show that the maximum lift coefficient of the baseline wing was increased up to 6% by the employment of MVGs; additionally, a significant delay in the stall angle (up to 2°) was also observed in the initial results. The maximum aerodynamic efficiency was observed in rectangular and trapezoidal-type MVGs. Conversely, the conventional delta-type MVGs exhibited lower aerodynamic efficiency. Trapezoidal-type MVGs (which are relatively uncommon) exhibited the most suitable results. The design optimization of trapezoidal MVGs for the full-scale 4R-UAV and the improvement of aerodynamic performance at lower angles of attack will be presented in future work.