High-Fidelity Aerodynamic Optimization of eVTOL Rotor Designs

The PDF will start by validating the use of the open-source Stanford University Unstructured (SU2) RANS-based CFD solver for rotorcraft design. This includes generating a mesh and configuration file with SU2 and performing a grid convergence study to validate SU2 and the chosen turbulence models against the reference experimental data. Following this, PDF will generate a mesh and configuration file for the reference rotor geometry provided by the partner organization, Limosa Inc. They will then adapt the configuration file for the designed operating conditions of the Limosa eVTOL in both hover and forward flight configurations. With this basic configuration implemented, PDF will add control points and design parameters for the optimization and use SU2 to get the sensitivity of the objective functions to these design parameters. Finally, PDF will optimize the blades using the sensitivities and the steepest descent algorithm implemented in the SU2 optimization toolbox to maximize the figure of merit and the propeller efficiency during the forward flight in order to minimize the amount of power required to sustain hover during the take-off and landing phases of flight and to increase the maximum aircraft range. The outcome of this work will be an open-source framework for eVTOL rotor optimization and a set of rotors optimized specifically for the Limosa eVTOL concept based on its specific mission profile to improve LimoConnect eVTOL maneuverability and flight performance. The optimized design will benefit lower power and lighter aircraft to serve the Canadian community in urban and rural areas.

Faculty Supervisor:

Brian Vermeire

Student:

Partner:

Limosa

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Concordia University

Program: