Abstract
In this study, the conceptual design of an unmanned ground effect vehicle (UGEV), based on in-house analytical tools and CFD calculations, followed by flow control studies, is presented. Ground effect vehicles can operate, in a more efficient way, over calm closed seas, taking advantage of the aerodynamic interaction between the ground and the vehicle. The proposed UGEV features a useful payload capacity of 300 kg and a maximum range of 300 km cruising at 100 kt. Regarding the aerodynamic layout, a platform which combines the basic geometry characteristics of the blended wing body (BWB), and box wing (BXW) configurations is introduced. This hybrid layout aims to incorporate the most promising features from both configurations, while it enables the UGEV to operate under adverse flight conditions of the atmospheric boundary layer of the earth. In order to enhance the performance characteristics of the platform, both passive and active flow control techniques are studied and incorporated into the conceptual design phase of the vehicle. For the passive flow control techniques, the adaptation of tubercles and wing fences is evaluated. Regarding the active flow control techniques, a wide range of morphing technologies is investigated based on performance and integration criteria. Finally, stability studies are conducted for the proposed platform.
Highlights
The current investigation focuses on the adaptation of state-of-the-art technologies to the design of a non-conventional configuration that will increase the efficiency of an aerial cargo transporting vessel, while taking into account the absence of runways
Considering its potential, the use of such an approach becomes extremely interesting in designing an efficient next-generation cargo transport unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), by reducing the operating costs and the carbon dioxide emissions
The current study aims to design, at conceptual level, an unmanned ground effect vehicle (UGEV), using a combined methodology that incorporates design procedures from available literature into in-house sizing tools, along with high-fidelity modelling tools
Summary
The current investigation focuses on the adaptation of state-of-the-art technologies to the design of a non-conventional configuration that will increase the efficiency of an aerial cargo transporting vessel, while taking into account the absence of runways. Considering its potential, the use of such an approach becomes extremely interesting in designing an efficient next-generation cargo transport unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), by reducing the operating costs and the carbon dioxide emissions. From the 1960s to the 1980s, the concept of the ground effect vehicle (GEV) was introduced (Figure 1), mainly for military use and later for commercial concepts. Their main distinguishing factor is that they are designed to fly close to sea level, taking advantage of the ground effect and allowing for a greater efficiency [1]. As civilian platforms, they featured a much quicker means of marine transport compared to ships
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