Abstract
The aim of this paper is to evaluate the theoretical efficiency of optimal propellers by means of a variational approach; non classical propellers are included in the analysis. A solution to the optimum rotor problem, in the context of propeller vortex theory, was given by Goldstein in 1929; in this paper, a variational formulation of the optimum rotor problem is proposed. The formulation consists into finding a class of functions (the circulation along the blade axis) for which the thrust and drag momentum functionals are well defined; in this class, the functional is proved to be strictly convex and, thus, the global minimum exists and is unique. Some configurations are analysed using the Ritz method: classical straight blade, parabolic blade, elliptical blade; single and multiple blade propellers are compared.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
