Emerging Technologies in UAV Aerodynamics

Abstract

Marques P. (2013). Emerging technologies in UAV aerodynamics. International Journal of Unmanned Systems Engineering. 1(S1): 3-4. Novel unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies address innovative airframe concepts for reasons of fuel efficiency, aircraft noise signature attenuation and reduced maintenance costs. New aerodynamic technologies prioritise flow control and flapless designs, in place of traditional hinged control surfaces, for enhanced manoeuvrability, reduced wing structural weight, and improved stealth. This technical note presents contemporary advances in Blended Wing Body (BWB) airframe design and flow control mechanisms for flapless flight control. Based upon the Coanda effect, engine thrust vectoring provides pitch control and Circulation Control (CC) replaces conventional ailerons for roll control. The integration of flapless aerodynamic technology in blended wing-body aircraft is envisaged to play a crucial role in future experimental flight research programmes for the development of next generation UAV concepts. © Marques Aviation Ltd – Press. 1. BLENDED WING BODY DESIGN The Blended Wing Body concept offers promising advantages in structural, aerodynamic and operational efficiency over the conventional fuselage-and-wing designs (Fig. 1). The unmanned Boeing X-48 Blended Wing Body experimental aircraft represents the futuristic philosophy supported by Boeing