Aerodynamic Modeling of Propeller Forces and Moments at High Angle of Incidence

Abstract : A reduced-order model to estimate the aerodynamic forces and moments of a propeller at incidence angle from 0° to 90° was presented. The objective was to provide an inexpensive and effective approach to analyse propeller performance of a vertical/short take-off and landing aerial vehicle during transition flight. The model was based on blade element theory and was coupled with an extended momentum theory or Pitt & Peters inflow model to include the asymmetrical flow condition. The aerofoil aerodynamic data was provided by an empirical model that extended lift and drag polar to a broad angle-of-attack range suitable in transition flight. Furthermore a rotational stall delay model and a radial flow correction model have been incorporated to include primary 3-dimensional effects. The result has been presented and compared with past experiment and unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes solution under similar conditions.