Proposed active flow control enabled hybrid tilt propeller/tilt wing aircraft

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to address shortcomings of current tiltrotor designs, such as the small aspect ratio of the wings, large download and the close proximity of the rotor tips. It also aims to avoid the complex transition of tiltrotors to normal airplane mode. Design/methodology/approach This design combines tiltrotor and tiltwing aircraft designs into a hybrid that is augmented by active flow control, using a gimbaled channel wing for attitude control in hover. Findings The proposed hybrid design is based on experimental results of components that were tested individually for potential use in hover and steep ascend from a stationary position. Originality/value This research was inspired by the extremely short take-off of the V-22, when its rotors were tilted forward. It combines several design approaches in a unique way to achieve extremely short take-off capabilities combined with high-speed and reduced maintenance costs.