What Is the Best Aerodynamic Design for a UAV Wing?

Overview

Objectives/Goals My science project was to identify the best aerodynamic design for a Unmanned Aerial Vehicle wing. I understand why different UAVs had such a larger difference in the shapes and sizes of their wings. Methods/Materials I built 8 different shapes that could be tested within the wind tunnel. 5 of the shapes were non-flying shapes but were used to demonstrate smoke patterns off of different surfaces. 3 of the shapes were traditional wing shapes of varying aspect ratios. I placed each shape into the wind tunnel and used video to record the test events. Each shape was moved through a series of directions. The point of turbulence noted on each shape was identified. Using a contrasting grid pattern I was able to utilize a ratio to compare each shape as to its aerodynamic attributes. Results The smaller wing shape had the least noted turbulence. Conclusions/Discussion My conclusion is that a traditional wing shape is preferred shape but the most important characteristic for the long loiter time requirement of a UAV is aspect ratio. The higher the aspect ratio, the better the lift characteristics.

Competition history

• CSEF 2015 Aerodynamics/ Hydrodynamics (Junior Division Only) · Entry J0109

Resources

• CSEF project summary ↗

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