Overview of surfing aircraft vortices for energy

Abstract

Surfing Aircraft Vortices for Energy (SAVE) refers to the behavior that an aircraft “rides” on the vortex of the front aircraft just like the formation flying of migratory birds and it can also provide guidance for the aircraft that is difficult to avoid entering the front vortex, reduce the incidence of flight accidents caused by the vortex, and improve the safe operation ability of civil aviation. The technology has the advantages of saving energy and increasing range, which is a hot issue in the field of aviation research. Firstly, this paper analyzes the main research contents, technological developments and applications in the field of SAVE at home and abroad. Then discusses the key technologies of SAVE such as aerodynamic principles, control of SAVE, safety guarantee, path planning, and related experimental verification technologies. Finally, the development and application trend of SAVE technology in military and civil aviation fields and its corresponding benefits brought by it will be pointed out.