Feasibility Study of a Multi-Purpose Aircraft Concept with a Leading-Edge Embedded Cross-Flow Fan

Abstract

The research presented focuses on investigating the use of Cross-Flow Fan (CFF) as a high-lift device for a Short Take-off and Landing (STOL) aircraft. The wing-embedded fan performance analysis is mostly addressed from an aerodynamic perspective and focuses on using such Active Flow Control (AFC) technology in the conceptual aircraft design process. In particular, the design trade study of an aircraft featuring the fan as a high-lift device applied to a conceptual design of a medium-range multi-purpose aircraft is performed. A sensitivity analysis is employed to investigate the impact of the technology on the aircraft weight, aerodynamics, stability and control, and fight performance. The aircraft design modifications are introduced to maximize the aircraft mission performance given the fan specifications and constraints. Results indicate a reduction of the take-of field length by 18% with the payload penalty of 14%. The aircraft ferry range is also decreased by 7% compared to the baseline aircraft design. The scaling analysis of the aircraft concept is performed to determine the potential market for such technology. The results show that a light General Aviation (GA) airplane or a medium-large size Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) could benefit more from the wing-embedded CFF compared to more heavy airplanes.