Article
Aerodynamic Effects of Ice and Its Influence on Flight Characteristics of Low Speed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
International Journal of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering
(2017)
Abstract
This paper presents the theory and application of low-speed flight for unmanned aerial vehicles when subjected to surface environmental conditions such as ice on the leading edge and upper surface. A model was developed and tested in a wind tunnel to see how theory compares with practice at various speed including take-off, landing and operational applications where head winds substantially alter parameters. Furthermore, a comparison is drawn with maned operations and how that this subject is currently under-supported with accurate theory or knowledge for designers or operators to make informed decision or accommodate individual applications. The effects of ice formation for lift and drag are determined for a range of different angles of attacks.
Keywords
- aerodynamics,
- environmental influences,
- glide path ratio,
- unmanned vehicles
Disciplines
Publication Date
February, 2017
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1999/1307-6892/46883
Publisher Statement
This article is part of the 19th International Conference on Aerospace, Mechanical, Automotive and Materials Engineering (ICAMAME), held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, February 23-24, 2017. The abstract appears in the World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology's International Science Index to Abstracts under 10.1099/1307-6892/46883.
Citation Information
I. McAndrew, K. L. Witcher and E. Navarro. "Aerodynamic Effects of Ice and Its Influence on Flight Characteristics of Low Speed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles" International Journal of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering Vol. 11 Iss. 2 (2017) ISSN: 1307-6892 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/kenneth-l-witcher/14/